Caulophyllum thalictroides - Blue Cohosh

Blue cohosh is a woodland species well-loved for its lacy, compound foliage and bright blue berries. This plant is slow to establish and requires moist, slightly acidic soil high in organic content. However, once it establishes, it is typically long-lived and will slowly spread by rhizomes to form small colonies. Its triply compound leaves, usually only one or two per plant, give it a soft, bushy texture reminiscent of meadow rues. Its purplish brown flowers are fairly inconspicuous, though they are followed by a cluster of bright blue berries held erect above the foliage. While these berries are quite attractive, they are poisonous and should not be eaten by humans. They are, however, enjoyed by birds, mice, and deer.