SafePlants

Baneberry (Actaea spp.)

Baneberry, belonging to the genus Actaea, encompasses several species of flowering plants. The most commonly discussed are Red Baneberry (Actaea rubra) and White Baneberry (Actaea pachypoda). They are known for their potentially toxic berries.

Considerations for Pets

• The text explicitly states that Baneberry is toxic to cats.

Considerations for Children

• The common name for white baneberry, "doll's eyes," is misleading, as the plant is toxic and not safe for children to play with.
• The berries, especially of Actaea rubra and Actaea pachypoda, are very poisonous, and even a small number can be dangerous if ingested.

Common Names

• Baneberry
• Bugbane
• Herb Christopher
• Red Cohosh
• Toadroot
• Snakeberry
• Poison de couleuvre
• Doll's-eyes (specifically for White Baneberry, Actaea pachypoda)
• Red cohosh (specifically for Red Baneberry, Actaea rubra)
• Necklaceweed

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Actaea
• Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercup Family)
• Actaea rubra (Red Baneberry)
• Actaea pachypoda (White Baneberry)
• Synonym for Actaea rubra: Actaea erythrocarpa (European Baneberry, used in the USA)
• Alternative scientific name: Actaea alba

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to subtropical and temperate regions.
• Actaea rubra (Red Baneberry) is native to North America.
• Actaea pachypoda (White Baneberry) is native to eastern North America.
• Common throughout Nova Scotian forests.
• Found in moist forests, indicating moist soil conditions.
• Grows at higher elevations (8000 feet) in cool, wet places.

Morphological Characteristics

• Herbaceous perennial.
• Bushy plant with large, highly divided leaves.
• Short, thick, rounded cluster of small white flowers in leaf axils or at stem ends.
• Flowers are about 0.3 inches (0.8 cm).
• Red Baneberry has brilliant red berries in mid to late summer.
• White Baneberry has white berries.
• Grows 3 or 4 feet tall, has a thick stem and thick underground root, large featherlike leaves.

Quirky Facts

• The word "bane" comes from the Old Norse language.
• The common name "doll's eyes" for white baneberry is considered misleading due to the plant's toxicity.