White Snakeroot (Ageratina altissima)
The tiny white flowers of White Snakeroot attract a variety of insects including bees, butterflies, and moths. It is also a host plant to 5 species of moths in the area (nwf.org). White Snakeroot spreads by rhizomatous roots to form colonies and is a prolific self-seeder, therefore, can feel a bit weedy. However, this plant does settle down once an area is established and will grow respectfully among other plants (Prairie Moon). White Snakeroot contains the toxin tremetol which causes "the trembles" in cattle and other livestock, thus, not a good pasture plant (illinoiswildflower.info).
Photo credit: Ken Gibson
The tiny white flowers of White Snakeroot attract a variety of insects including bees, butterflies, and moths. It is also a host plant to 5 species of moths in the area (nwf.org). White Snakeroot spreads by rhizomatous roots to form colonies and is a prolific self-seeder, therefore, can feel a bit weedy. However, this plant does settle down once an area is established and will grow respectfully among other plants (Prairie Moon). White Snakeroot contains the toxin tremetol which causes "the trembles" in cattle and other livestock, thus, not a good pasture plant (illinoiswildflower.info).
Photo credit: Ken Gibson
The tiny white flowers of White Snakeroot attract a variety of insects including bees, butterflies, and moths. It is also a host plant to 5 species of moths in the area (nwf.org). White Snakeroot spreads by rhizomatous roots to form colonies and is a prolific self-seeder, therefore, can feel a bit weedy. However, this plant does settle down once an area is established and will grow respectfully among other plants (Prairie Moon). White Snakeroot contains the toxin tremetol which causes "the trembles" in cattle and other livestock, thus, not a good pasture plant (illinoiswildflower.info).
Photo credit: Ken Gibson
Life Cycle: Short-Lived Perennial, Perennial
Sun Exposure: Partial, Shade
Soil Moisture: Medium-Wet, Medium, Medium-Dry
Height: 2-4 feet
Plant Spacing:
Bloom Time: July-October
Bloom Color: White
Advantages:Deer Resistant
Host Plant: 5 species of butterflies and moths use this as a caterpillar host plant in our area (nwf.org)
