Doll’s Eyes (Actaea pachypoda Alba), also known as White Baneberry Cohosh, is a native North American perennial prized for its unique white berries resembling “doll’s eyes” and its elegant, delicate white flowers. This shade-loving plant thrives in woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalized landscapes, offering both ornamental beauty and ecological value.

Ideal for adding interest to low-light garden areas, Doll’s Eyes provides berries that attract wildlife while maintaining a visually striking presence. The plant prefers rich, moist soils and a sheltered location, making it perfect for gardeners seeking low-maintenance native perennials that support local ecosystems.

Features

• Native perennial with unique white berries
• Produces small, delicate white flowers in late spring to early summer
• Thrives in shaded woodland gardens and naturalized areas
• Non-GMO seeds suitable for perennial garden cultivation
• Supports native pollinators and adds ornamental interest

Specifications

• Seed Type: Doll’s Eyes White Baneberry seeds
• Botanical Name: Actaea pachypoda Alba
• Common Names: Doll’s Eyes, White Baneberry, Cohosh
• Plant Type: Perennial Herbaceous Plant
• Plant Height: 1 – 2 feet
• Zones: USDA Zones 3 – 8
• Light Requirement: Partial to full shade
• Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil
• Germination Time: 60 – 90 days (cold stratification recommended)
• Days to Maturity: 2 – 3 years to produce berries
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Season: Spring planting
• Planting Depth: Surface sow; press lightly into soil
• Spacing: 12 – 18 inches apart
• Optimal Temperature: 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C)
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during establishment
• Companion Plants: Ferns, Hostas, Trillium, Woodland perennials
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
• Flower Color: White
• Fruit Color: White berries with black dots
• Uses: Woodland garden, shaded borders, pollinator support, ornamental plant
• Storage: Store seeds in a cool, dry location

Planting Guide

• Stratification: Requires 60–90 days of cold stratification for successful germination.
• Sowing: Sow seeds on surface of moist soil; press lightly but do not cover completely.
• Location: Choose partial or full shade, with rich, moist soil.
• Watering: Keep soil consistently damp until established; reduce after first year.
• Maintenance: Low-maintenance once established; mulch to retain soil moisture.
• Wildlife Note: Berries provide food for birds but are toxic to humans.