White Baneberry

Actaea pachypoda, or White Baneberry, is an intriguing perennial for shaded UK gardens, maturing to 60-90cm tall. In May and June, it produces bottlebrush-like spikes of fluffy white flowers, delightful in their own right. However, its most striking feature comes in late summer and autumn: clusters of brilliant white berries, each with a prominent black 'pupil', earning it the common name 'Doll's Eyes'. It thrives in moist, humus-rich soil and partial to full shade. Fully hardy (RHS H6), this plant provides multi-season interest, from delicate spring blooms to eye-catching autumn berries, making it a valuable addition to naturalistic or woodland plantings.

Sun: Partial shade.

Soil: Moist, humus-rich.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: May, Jun.