Red Baneberry

Actaea rubra

Physical Characteristics

Actaea rubra is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

N. America - Alaska to California and eastwards to Newfoundland and Philadelphia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Antirheumatic Appetizer Emetic Galactogogue Purgative Rubefacient The whole plant, but especially the root, is analgesic, antirheumatic, galactogogue and rubefacient[172, 257]. The plant was often used medicinally by North American Indian tribes, though modern users should be aware of the plants potential toxicity. A tea made from the root is used as an appetizer, in the treatment of stomach pains, coughs, colds, menstrual irregularities, post partum pains, to increase milk flow and as a purgative after childbirth[222, 257]. Great caution should be employed if using this plant internally, the rootstock is a violent purgative, irritant and emetic[212].

Known Hazards

All parts of the plant are toxic[172], apparently acting upon the heart[212].