Actaea simplex Chocoholic (Baneberry)

Actaea simplex 'Chocoholic' (Baneberry) is a striking perennial that brings a rich, moody elegance to garden borders. This variety stands out with its deep, chocolate-purple foliage that serves as a beautiful contrast to its soft, fragrant flower spikes.

Blooming in late summer to early autumn, 'Chocoholic' produces tall, slender spikes of delicate pinkish-white flowers that rise gracefully above the foliage, adding both height and texture to your garden. Growing to around 90-120 cm in height with a spread of approximately 45-60 cm, 'Chocoholic' thrives in partially shaded spots, making it ideal for English gardens where dappled light or morning sun suits it well.

This hardy perennial prefers moist, well-drained soil and brings a dramatic yet refined touch to cottage gardens, woodland edges, or shaded borders. Supplied as bare root plants, Actaea 'Chocoholic' is an excellent choice for those looking to introduce a unique colour and form to their landscape while attracting pollinators with its gentle fragrance.

Actaea simplex 'Chocoholic' typically blooms from late summer to early autumn.

It's recommended to plant about 3-5 bare root plants per square metre. This spacing allows each plant to develop its full spread while creating a lush, layered effect in partially shaded garden areas.

Baneberry plants typically takes about 2-3 years to fully establish in the garden. During this time, the plant develops its root system and achieves its mature height and spread, with blooms becoming more prolific each season as it settles into its environment. Patience with early growth rewards gardeners with a robust, fragrant, and visually stunning perennial.

Botanical name: Actaea simplex 'Chocoholic'
Common names: Baneberry, Bugbane, Black Cohosh, Snakeroot
Flower colour: Pink/white
Plant size: 1 (top size)
Established height: 90-120cm
Established spread: 45-60cm
Plant spacing: 3-5 plants per m2
Blooming period: August - October
Leaf colour: Deep, rich chocolate-purple colour
Life cycle: Perennial
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Years to establish: 2-3 years
Sunlight: Partial shade
Soil moisture: Damp/Free draining
Fragrant: Pleasant, sweet fragrance
Toxicity: Toxic if ingested
Dispatch: Early Spring (Mid March/April)