Doll’s eyes (Actaea pachypoda)

Baneberries — Doll’s eyes; white baneberry (Actaea pachypoda) Seeds

$ 6.00

Out of Stock

Upright bushy plants with handsome dark green, divided leaves. In late spring, white elongated flower clusters attract late spring pollinating insects. In late summer, white fruits with a dark “eye” pop out in the woodland landscape and are eaten by small mammals and birds. Fruits are poisonous to humans if eaten in large quantities (the taste is terrible, so an unlikely mistake!).

Native to Maine: Yes

Growing conditions: Part to full shade in medium soil

Grows up to: 2’

Blooms: In late spring

Natural habitat: Moist deciduous forests and woodland edges

Seeds per packet: 50 (moist-stratified)

Germination Code(s): E and F
Sow these seeds, immediately upon receipt, outdoors in pots from November through February. Look for germination the second spring as these seeds go through a double dormancy - they need a cold-warm-cold period to germinate. This species is challenging to grow, and a great species for more experienced seed-sowers.

Each seed package carries a specific germination code along with the plant description. These codes indicate specific sowing instructions.

  • A Seeds can be sown outdoors in fall or early spring.
  • B Seeds need a winter or cold period to germinate. Sow outdoors in fall or winter.
  • C Seeds need light to germinate; sow on soil surface and leave uncovered.
  • D Seeds need alternating cycles of warm-to-cold-to-warm to germinate. They can be sown either outdoors in spring or summer and will germinate the following year or in a flat in a warm place for 3 months, then moved to a refrigerator for 2 months, then moved outside in the early summer warmth.
  • E Seeds can not be allowed to dry out. Sow immediately.
  • F Seeds take two years to germinate. Sow outside in the fall or winter and look for germination in the second spring. A shady location prevents the flats from rapid drying and reduces weeding
  • G Large seeds should be soaked overnight in water.
  • FERN: Sow spores in a warm bright location in a sealed container and keep moist. Directions enclosed with package. Challenging.

If you have specific questions about seeds and germination guidelines please contact us at info@wildseedproject.net.

All seeds can be sown and placed outdoors in fall or winter bypassing the need for an artificial indoor cold stratification (refrigerator) required for some species when planted in spring. This is the simplest method. See How to Grow Natives From Seed for detailed instructions.