American Bugbane Actaea podocarpa

Mountain Bugbane is a native wildflower in the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). Its native habitat includes moist woods and slopes at moderate to high elevations of southern and central Appalachians. The genus name is the Greek word for elderberry. The leaves of the elderberry and Mountain Bugbane are similar in appearance. The specific epithet is Greek referring to the position of the seed at the base on the fruit.

It prefers rich, moist, acidic soils in part shade to full shade. This plant can take 2-5 years to establish. At maturity, it is at least 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Prune after flowering or fruiting. The soil should not be allowed to dry out or the attractive fern-like foliage will look scorched. Propagation by division is more successful than by seeds.

The showy flowers are tiny white bottle-brush shaped with no petals. The flower stems add another 5 to 6 feet in height late summer into fall. Flies are attracted to its strong foul odor of the flowers. It is considered vulnerable in some areas due to habitat lost.

Plant along shaded borders, shade gardens, woodland gardens, cottage gardens or naturalized areas for architectural interest provided by the tall flower stems. It looks better when grown in groups and could be considered a ground cover since the foliage is bushy and close to the ground. If the ground is moist around trees, it can be planted as an understory like ferns.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  No serious insect or disease problems.  The tall flower spikes may need support if not sheltered from winds.

More information on Actaea.