Genus: Actaea from Greek 'elder' referring to the similar leaves
Species: rubra or 'red'
aka Red Baneberry. As the common name suggests the berries are toxic (berries and roots contain the poisonous compound protoanemonin which paralyzes the respiratory system). Nevertheless, a very attractive plant rising to 2 - 3 ft. (to 1m.). Small white flowers fall at slightest distrubance giving way to gleaming clusters of waxy bright scarlet berries (occasionally white). The leaves are very distinctive with three major lobes which are then divided into 3 - 5 smaller leaflets. Usually found in openings in moist forests to 4,000 ft. (ref. Clark, Biek)
Trail Notes:
Trail/Hike: Green Lake
Date: June 2, 2007
Location: approx. midway to Green Lake from Ipsut Creek road
