Actaea pachypoda, White Baneberry

These berries are rather stunning in their whites

Doll's Eyes, also known as White Baneberry, is uncommon inhabitant of Minnesota woodlands at the western-most range of its habitat. Yet, it is found in the eastern-most counties of the state, with records showing Hennepin County before 1975.. It can be easy to confuse with its more common cousin, Red Baneberry, which has, as the name implies, red berries but also has hairs on its leaves, which Doll's Eyes does not. The berries from either species are poisonous and should not be consumed, although birds do eat them. 

Doll's Eye's are not abundant in MN woodlands, therefore can be planted as such -sparsely. Combine with Virginia Waterleaf, Maidenhair Fern, Lady Fern, Red Baneberry, Large-flowered Trillium, Rue Anemone, Woodland Geranium, Bishop's Cap, Large Leaf Aster, Prickly Gooseberry and more.

Bloom: white, May to June

Height: 2 feet

Conditions: shade to pt shade (afternoon shade or dappled), medium soils 

Several White Baneberry at MN Landscape Arboretum

 

White Baneberry flowers