In the buttercup family, Actaea spp. are
perennial herbs grown from a thick rhizome that emerges in the spring.
They will produce one or more branching stems. Depending on the
variety, each stem will have either three leaves that branch towards the
top or three compound leaves and one flower stalk from the central
stem. Their leaves are spreading, pinnately divided with toothed
leaflets. The flowers are small and white in a terminal, erect raceme.
The fruit is white, red, or purplish-black berries with a black dot and
often on thick, red stalks. The black dot's on the berries lead to the
common name, Doll's Eyes.
It can be grown in an area with partial to full shade but will
produce more flowers when placed in sunlight. When grown in deep shade,
the stalks will bend toward bright light.
The poison does not affect birds, they will eat the fruit. Small mammals will not eat the pulp but will consume the seeds.
It is typically found in forests or natural areas, as well as rich woods.
All parts of this plant are poisonous, with the berries and roots being the most hazardous.
