Doll's Eye

Doll’s Eyes, also known as White Baneberry, is a bold and eye-catching native woodland perennial prized for its unusual and dramatic foliage and late-season berries. It’s a native wildflower that’s native to eastern North America and can be found naturally growing in rich, moist forests and woodland edges. In gardens, Doll’s Eyes works well in naturalized plantings, shady borders, and pollinator gardens. The common name is a result of its round white berries that have black centers and are reminiscent of “doll’s eyes.”

The plant has attractive, feathery white flowers that bloom in loose clusters atop tall, airy stems in spring. The flowers are subtle and attract early-season pollinators like native bees and flies. As the flowers fade in mid to late summer, they’re replaced by the plant’s namesake feature: perfectly round, pearl-white berries with large black “pupils.” The berries are borne on top of thick red-stemmed stalks and are one of the most eye-catching and showy native perennials for late summer and fall plantings. The combination of white berries and dark green, finely divided foliage creates a dramatic and unusual display that stands out in the garden.

Doll’s Eyes is a favorite among woodland gardeners for its ability to provide food and habitat for wildlife while adding ornamental value to the garden. While the berries are toxic to humans and animals, they are eaten by some species of birds, which helps to spread the plant’s seeds and allows it to naturalize in shady garden spots. The flowers also offer a source of early-season nectar and pollen for native insects.

Doll’s Eyes is a low-maintenance perennial that’s easy to grow once established. It prefers part to full shade and humus-rich, consistently moist soil. It’s an ideal companion plant for other shade-loving natives like ferns, trilliums, bloodroot, and blue cohosh. The plant adds height and dimension to the garden, with its tall flower stems and striking white berries that contrast beautifully with its foliage and other woodland plants. The berries persist into fall, providing an unusual and eye-catching visual in the garden.

One of the reasons gardeners love Doll’s Eyes is its unique and intriguing appearance. The plant’s distinct berries and graceful, upright stems make it a conversation starter and a focal point in any woodland or naturalized garden setting. It’s also an excellent choice for adding color, texture, and interest to the understory of trees and shrubs in the garden. Additionally, the plant is well-suited for shady areas of the garden where many flowering plants can’t thrive, making it a valuable addition to any garden with limited sun exposure.

In summary, Doll’s Eyes is a native woodland perennial with unusual and dramatic foliage and berries that provide interest and beauty in the garden from spring through fall.