Remove all packaging straight away. Check the compost and water thoroughly if dry, then place the plants outdoors in a sheltered position or in a greenhouse.
Out of season
New
Actaea
'Chocoholic'
baneberry
Actaea 'Chocoholic' is a perennial of deliciously dark allure, prized as much for its sumptuous foliage as for its elegant late-season flowers. Forming a generous clump, Actaea 'Chocoholic' unfurls finely dissected leaves in deep bronze tones, lending a rich, velvety presence from spring onwards. Rising through this decadent foliage, slender purple-bronze stems carry airy, branching racemes of soft pink, bottlebrush-like blooms, their gentle fragrance drifting through the garden from late summer into early autumn. As the season matures, Actaea 'Chocoholic' or baneberry follows with glossy black berries, adding yet another layer of intrigue and contrast to its already captivating display.
Despite its refined appearance, Actaea 'Chocoholic' is wonderfully at ease in lightly shaded borders where soil remains moist yet well-drained. Its height, reaching up to 1.5 metres in flower, makes it ideal for the back of a border, where it weaves effortlessly among ferns, hostas and other shade-loving companions. There is a quiet drama to Actaea 'Chocoholic'; the interplay of dusky foliage, pale blooms and inky berries creates a planting moment that feels both romantic and slightly mysterious. Whether used as a focal point or repeated for rhythm, Actaea simplex 'Chocoholic' brings depth, movement and a touch of indulgence to more sheltered corners of the garden.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Check each plant’s specifications. Hardy perennials can remain outdoors, while half-hardy and tender varieties should be kept frost-free until the risk of frost has passed.
Plant within a month, preferably sooner. Choose a suitable position, remove weeds and loosen the soil thoroughly, adding compost or well-rotted organic matter where needed.
Gently remove the plant from its pot and plant with the root ball level with the soil surface. Firm gently, water well and add a plant label.
Water regularly until established and whenever the soil feels dry during spring and summer. Feed container-grown plants fortnightly during active growth to encourage healthy flowering.
- Botanical name
- Actaea simplex (Atropurpurea group) 'Chocoholic'
- Flower colour
- White, purple
- Established height
- 1.2-1.5m
- Established spread
- 50-70cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
-
Upright
Clump-forming - Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Purple, bronze
- Mouse resistant
- Yes
- Plant size
- 1
- Plant spacing
- 6 plants per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
- Sheltered
- Rabbit resistant
- Yes
- RHS Award (AGM)
- Yes
- Scented
- Yes
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
-
Damp
Boggy
Free draining - Soil type
-
Clay
Loam
Multipurpose compost - Squirrel resistant
- Yes
- Suitable for
-
Borders
Wildlife gardens
Woodland gardens
Water gardens
Cottage gardens
Cut flower gardens - Sunlight
-
Partial shade
Dappled shade - Toxicity
- No report
- Years to establish
- 2-3 years
Good for cutting
Pollinator-friendly
Fragrant
Great for shade
RHS Recommended
Perennial
Fully hardy
Packed peat-free
Attracts wildlife
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Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.
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Our care team of horticultural experts is on hand to support you choose and garden with confidence.
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Every bulb and plant is sourced, selected and prepared with an expert eye for their quality and garden performance.
