Actaea Rubra Seeds – Red Baneberry, Shade-Loving Woodland Beauty

Actaea Rubra, commonly known as Red Baneberry, is a charming woodland perennial valued for its elegant white flowers and brilliant red berries that brighten shaded gardens. Native to North America, this ornamental species thrives in cool, moist, and shaded areas, making it a perfect choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalized landscapes.

With attractive divided foliage and small, fragrant blooms in late spring, Actaea Rubra adds a touch of refinement to any garden design. Its bright berries provide seasonal color contrast and attract visual interest throughout summer.

Features:

• Botanical Name: Actaea Rubra

• Common Name: Red Baneberry

• Type: Perennial

• Growth Habit: Upright, clumping form

• Flower Color: White (small clusters)

• Berry Color: Bright red

• Foliage: Deep green, divided leaves

• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

• Mature Height: 18–30 inches

• Spread: 12–24 inches

• Maintenance Level: Low

Specifications:

• USDA Zones: 3–8

• Sun Exposure: Partial to full shade

• Soil Requirements: Moist, humus-rich, well-draining soil

• Soil pH: Neutral to slightly acidic (6.0–7.0)

• Watering Needs: Keep evenly moist; avoid drying out

• Planting Guide:

  • Sow seeds in late fall or stratify before spring sowing

  • Press seeds lightly into soil surface; do not cover deeply

  • Keep soil moist during germination (may take several weeks)

  • Transplant young seedlings when established and frost risk has passed

• Spacing: 12–18 inches apart for best coverage

• Growth Environment: Thrives in shaded woodland gardens and damp, rich soils

Benefits:

• Adds elegant texture and natural beauty to shaded gardens

• Produces showy white blooms followed by striking red berries

• Ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalized areas

• Easy to grow and maintain in cool, shaded climates

• Excellent for biodiversity and native plant collections