Cimicifuga dahurica
Cimicifuga dahuricafam. Aristolochiaceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified clinician before using any herbal preparation — especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, while on medication, or for children. How we source & review →
Pl. 12C0 — Cimicifuga dahurica
Cimicifuga dahuricaCimicifuga dahuricaCimicifuga dahuricaCimicifuga dahuricaCimicifuga dahuricaCimicifuga dahuricaCimicifuga dahuricaCimicifuga dahuricaCimicifuga dahuricaCimicifuga dahuricaCimicifuga dahuricaCimicifuga dahuricaCimicifuga dahuricaCimicifuga dahurica
IOverview
Overview
Cimicifuga dahurica, also known as black cohosh, is a perennial plant native to regions including Amur, China North-Central, and Manchuria. It thrives in partial sun to shade with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Hardy from zones 4-8, this plant reaches heights of about 1.5 meters. Known for its edible leaves and documented medicinal uses, Cimicifuga dahurica is valued both in traditional medicine and as an ornamental garden addition. Its distinctive features include a light green foliage that provides a pleasant contrast to other plants in the garden, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a versatile perennial with multiple applications.
Quick answers
What is Cimicifuga dahurica?
Cimicifuga dahurica, also known as black cohosh, is a perennial plant native to regions including Amur, China North-Central, and Manchuria. It thrives in partial sun to shade with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stress Relief
stresstincture
Historically used to soothe nervous tension.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cimicifuga dahurica thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. For propagation, divide the roots in early spring or take stem cuttings in late summer. The edible parts are its leaves, making it a versatile addition to gardens and culinary uses.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Cimicifuga dahurica for the first time
8steps
Start with Skip as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip plants, well-draining soil, mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with partial sun to shade. Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) and moist.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from nursery pots directly into the garden or sow seeds in containers before planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light watering during dry spells and mulch around the base to retain moisture. Prune dead foliage in spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Skip after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Cimicifuga dahurica are edible and can be consumed fresh or dried. They are typically prepared by boiling to make a tea or added raw to salads for a mild flavor.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
10 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
10 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 10 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaMongoliaSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Amur, Chita, Khabarovsk, Primorye
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Aristolochiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Aristolochiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 12c032e3-84d7-433a-8841-16bc855b5245
Decision aid
Choosing between Cimicifuga dahurica and something else?
Continue reading
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.