Eupatorium-rugosum-flowers.JPG. by Jarekt. CC BY-SA 3.0. via Wikimedia Commons
CC BY-SA 3.0 ยท Wikimedia Commons
White Snakeroot Plant Care
Ageratina altissima (L.) R.M.King & H.Rob.
Ageratina altissima, also known as white snakeroot,[2] richweed,[2] or white sanicle,[3] is a poisonous perennial herb in the family Asteraceae, native to eastern and central North America. An older binomial name for this species is Eupatorium rugosum, but the genus Eupatorium has undergone taxonomic revision by botanists, and some species once included in it have been moved to other genera.
Every 7โ10 days
Full sun to partial shade
50โ85ยฐF
40โ70%
What Is the White Snakeroot?
White Snakeroot (Ageratina altissima) belongs to the Asteraceae family within the Ageratina genus. White Snakeroot is native to eastern and central North America. White Snakeroot is also known as Tall White Snakeroot, Ageratina ageratoides, Ageratum altissimum.
White Snakeroot displays an upright, bushy shrub growth habit, reaching up to 3 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. White Snakeroot produces clusters of small white or pink flowers in flat-topped inflorescences.
Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.
How Often Should You Water a White Snakeroot?
Ageratina altissima requires watering every 7โ10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7โ10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the White Snakeroot Need?
White Snakeroot thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200โ1000 lux. Avoid placing White Snakeroot in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
200โ1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the White Snakeroot Prefer?
Ageratina altissima grows best at temperatures between 50ยฐF and 85ยฐF. White Snakeroot prefers humidity levels of 40โ70%.
Temperature
50โ85ยฐF
Humidity
40โ70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a White Snakeroot?
Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter for moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for White Snakeroot to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a White Snakeroot?
Repot every 1-2 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a White Snakeroot?
White Snakeroot can be propagated through seeds, division of root ball.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the White Snakeroot Toxic to Pets and Children?
Toxic to Pets & Children
Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
What Pests and Diseases Affect the White Snakeroot?
White Snakeroot is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the White Snakeroot Need?
White Snakeroot grows outdoors in USDA Zone 4a โ 9b. Native to eastern and central North America, White Snakeroot is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow White Snakeroot as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 4a โ 9b
Keep exploring plants
White Snakeroot is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Ageratina genus โ compare its care with other Ageratina species on PlantoScan.
White Snakeroot tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots โ browse the full list of low-light plants.