'Chocoholic' bugbane is prized first and foremost for deep burgundy color of its foliage. Then, come mid-summer, that foliage becomes the dramatic backdrop for  its  graceful spires of white flowers. Whether in a woodland setting or at the back of shady border, they provide a strong vertical accent, and lasting bloom in high summer.

There are over 25 different species of bugbane or Actaea, spanning Europe, Asia, and North America. They're generally woodland plants, happiest in dappled shade and cool, consistently moist soil. Most form mounds of toothed leaves and then in mid-summer send up spikes of tightly packed flowers, often followed by conspicuous berries. NOTE: Berries are poisonous to people and rabbits; harmless to birds and butterflies.