Actaea Chocoholic

Supplied as Bare Root:

Actaea simplex ‘Chocoholic’ is a wonderfully dramatic, late-season perennial with rich, dark chocolate-purple foliage and elegant, upright spires of softly scented, pale pink-white “bottlebrush” flowers in late summer and autumn. It’s a superb plant for bringing height, contrast and movement to shadier borders, and a real favourite for woodland-style planting. The dark leaves look striking from spring onwards, while the flowers provide a valuable late nectar source when many other plants are finishing.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant bare roots in autumn through to early spring while dormant, avoiding periods when the ground is frozen or waterlogged.

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in partial shade or dappled shade with moisture-retentive, humus-rich soil. Actaea enjoys consistent moisture and is ideal for woodland borders, shady mixed beds, or planting near ponds and streams (but not in standing water).

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant so the crown (growing point) sits about 2–5 cm below the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart to allow room to mature.
• Soil Prep: Improve the planting area with well-rotted compost or leaf mould to hold moisture and feed the plant.

Watering:
Water well after planting and keep the soil evenly moist during the first growing season. Actaea dislikes drying out—adding a mulch helps conserve moisture.

Aftercare Tips:

• Mulch in spring with compost or well-rotted manure to retain moisture and improve soil.
• Water during dry spells, especially in summer, to prevent stress.
• Cut back old stems to ground level in late winter or early spring.
• Avoid moving the plant once established—Actaea can be slow to settle in.

Top Tip:
Actaea ‘Chocoholic’ gives its best foliage colour and flowering in cooler, shaded positions with reliable moisture. Pair with ferns, Hostas, Heuchera and Japanese anemones for a stunning late-season woodland display.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
August - October

Height:
36–48" (90–120cm)

Position:
Partial shade / dappled shade

Hardy Perennial