Also known as Squaw-root or Papoose-root, the blue cohosh is botanically named Caulophyllum thalictroides. It is a plant that is native to the United States and is a member of the barberry family.
Blue Cohosh Description
Blue cohosh grows one to three feet high with a large multi-stemmed growing habit. Leaves are green but are purplish in the spring. Flowers are yellow-green or purple-brown and are in clusters. Berries are bright blue. Bloom season is between April and May.
Growing Guide
This native prefers to grow in full shade conditions with a moist well drained soil. It does best if the winter’s leaves were left around the plant come springtime. Propagate by seeds. Seed will need scarification prior to sowing.
Distribution
This perennial is seen throughout the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. It is found in woodland areas.
Warnings
Leaves, berries, and roots of this native may give a skin irritation when touched. The berries, when raw, are poisonous and should not be ingested. Their toxicity is from saponins and from alkaloids.
Interesting Facts
The berries were once used as a coffee substitute despite today being known as toxic.
Source: NPIN