Baneberry is a small group of wild herbs with poisonous berries. There are several species (kinds). Baneberry plants are perennials, which means they live more than two growing seasons. The plants thrive in well-drained soil in shady, forested areas. They often reach about 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 centimeters) high, and they have compound leaves with pointed, ridged leaflets. Baneberries produce racemes (long clusters) of small, white flowers that bloom from May to June. Clusters of berries appear in the summer.
White baneberry, also called doll’s eyes, is one well-known species. It has white berries that each have a black, eyelike dot. Red baneberry, another well-known species, produces red berries. Both plants look similar when they are flowering. But the red baneberry has a slender stalk, while the white baneberry has a thick stalk below the fruit.
Native Americans traditionally made a weak tea from the root of baneberry plants to treat such illnesses as colds and arthritis. However, the berries are poisonous and should not be eaten.
