Blue cohosh

Caulophyllum thalictroides

Eastern North American woodland perennial with finely divided foliage and deep blue berries. Listed for reference; significant toxicity precludes home use.

Hardiness ratings

Blue cohosh hardiness across the four zone systems
SystemRatingTemperature rangeHow to read it
USDA hardiness zone Zone 3–8 −40 °C to −6.7 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
RHS hardiness rating H7 down to −20 °C Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance
Canadian plant hardiness zone Zone 3–8 −34 °C to −1 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
Australian (ANBG) zone Zone 1–4 −15 °C to 5 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone

Growing notes

  • Reference entry only — significant toxicity. Historical use as labour stimulant has been linked to serious infant cardiac complications and is no longer considered safe practice.
  • Strongly contraindicated in pregnancy
  • Always consult a qualified medical or herbal practitioner before using any plant medicinally

Pet caution: Blue cohosh is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.

Categories

Related plants

Cross-check Blue cohosh against your zones

Reference

Blue cohosh on Wikipedia