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baneberry

Scientific Name: Actaea

Family: Ranunculaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Baneberry (Actaea spp.)

Baneberry, also known as bugbane, encompasses several species of flowering plants recognized for both their beauty and toxicity.

Considerations for Pets

  • The provided text explicitly states: "The Baneberry plant is toxic to cats." If you suspect your cat has been exposed, seek veterinary advice immediately.

Considerations for Children

  • The common name "doll's eyes" for white baneberry (Actaea pachypoda) can be misleading, as the plant is toxic and should not be handled or played with.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Actaea spp. (specifically mentioned: Actaea rubra, Actaea pachypoda, Actaea erythrocarpa). Synonyms mentioned: Actaea alba
  • Common Names: Baneberry, Bugbane, Herb Christopher, Red Cohosh, Toadroot, Snakeberry, Poison de Couleuvre, Doll's-eyes (for Actaea pachypoda), Red Baneberry and Red Cohosh (for Actaea rubra), European Baneberry (for Actaea erythrocarpa)
  • Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercup Family)
  • Rank: Genus

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to subtropical and temperate regions.
  • Actaea rubra is native to North America.
  • Actaea pachypoda is native to eastern North America.
  • Common throughout Nova Scotian forests.
  • Found in moist forests, indicating moist soil conditions.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • Herbaceous perennial.
  • Grows in bushy clumps.
  • Features large, highly divided leaves.
  • Bears clusters of small white flowers in spring.
  • Flowers are approximately 0.3 inches (0.8 cm) in size.
  • Produces berries in mid to late summer. Berries can be red (Actaea rubra) or white (Actaea pachypoda).
  • Grows 3 to 4 feet tall at higher elevations with thick stems and roots.
  • Leaves are described as lacy and resembling those of Astilbe.

Ecological Role

  • The presence of Baneberry indicates moist soils.

Toxicity

  • The berries are the most poisonous part of the plant.
  • Ingestion of even a small number of berries (5 or 6) can be dangerous.
  • May affect the nervous system.
  • The plant contains a poisonous essential oil or glycoside.