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Herbaceous Perennial

Caulophyllum thalictroides

blue cahosh

A rhizomatous perennial with leaves divided into three leaflets and sprays of small, green or yellow-brown, star-shaped flowers in spring. These are followed by deep, bright blue, berry-like seeds up to 1cm across

Other common names
blue cohosh
blue ginseng
see moregarden blueberry
papoose root
umbrella leaf
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Brown Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green Blue
Winter
Position
  • Full shade
  • Partial shade
Aspect

North–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Berberidaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Caulophyllum are rhizomatous perennials with leaves divided into three leaflets, unshowy flowers and bright blue, berry-like seeds

Name status

Correct

Plant range
E N America

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist, humus-rich, acid soil in deep or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by division of root crowns or rhizomes in autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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