Black and Blue Cohosh
The intricately
divided leaves and tall stature of Black and Blue Cohosh make them two
of the most striking species on the mature cove hardwood forest
floor. Keep your eyes open as you walk the Americorps Trail and
you will find these two types of plants growing side by side.
Every stage of
their life cycle is eye-catching, from the purple leaves of the Blue
Cohosh pushing up out of the soil in the early spring, to the tall
white spires of Black Cohosh flowers in June, and finally to the
grape-like fruits that appear on Blue Cohosh in the summer. Both
plants are reputed to have similar healing properties with Black Cohosh
roots being used to treat gynecological problems and induce abortions
while Blue Cohosh roots have been used to ease menstrual pain and
induce labor.
Not
pictured:
Black
Cohosh
Scientific
Name: Cimicifuga racemosa
Family:
Ranunculaceae (Buttercup Family)
Habitat:
Rich woods
Blooms:
June - August
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