Red Baneberry

Red Baneberry

Actaea rubra

A striking native woodland perennial known for its clusters of bright red berries that appear in mid to late summer. In spring, delicate white flower clusters rise above finely divided foliage, creating a soft and elegant display in shaded forest settings.

As the season progresses, the flowers develop into glossy red berries held on slender stems above the leaves. These vivid fruits stand out dramatically against the deep green woodland foliage.

A Woodland Plant with Bold Seasonal Interest

Red Baneberry adds beauty and structure to shaded landscapes throughout the growing season. Its finely cut leaves create a lush woodland texture, while the spring flowers and summer berries provide changing visual interest.

Although highly ornamental, the berries are toxic to humans and should not be consumed.

A Plant of Cool Forest Floors

Red Baneberry grows naturally in rich deciduous forests, shaded slopes, and woodland clearings where soils remain moist and fertile. It thrives in part shade to full shade and blends naturally with other woodland species.

Once established, it can form small colonies that contribute to healthy and diverse forest understories.

Growing Information

Height: 1–2.5 ft

Spread: 1–2 ft

Light: Part shade to full shade

Soil: Moist, rich woodland soils

Hardiness: Zone 3–7

Growth Rate: Moderate

Best planted in woodland gardens, forest restorations, shaded borders, and naturalized understory plantings.

Ecological Importance

Red Baneberry:

Provides habitat and seasonal food sources for wildlife

Supports biodiversity in woodland ecosystems

Adds structural diversity to forest understory plant communities

Helps stabilize and enrich woodland soils

Associated Woodland Species

Common companions in natural woodland plant communities include:

• Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense)
• Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum)
• Large-leaved Aster (Eurybia macrophylla)
• White Wood Aster (Eurybia divaricata)
• Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia)
• Woodland Phlox (Phlox divaricata)
• Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)

Planting these species together helps recreate layered woodland ecosystems that support pollinators, insects, and forest wildlife.

Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive 🌱
Origin Native Plants 🌱

3.5 inch Pots 🌱/or Gallons