Eupatorium rugosum Chocolate

White Snakeroot

Eupatorium rugosum ‘Chocolate’ (syn. Ageratina altissima ‘Chocolate’) — commonly called White Snakeroot — is an upright herbaceous perennial valued for its striking dark foliage and late-season blooms. It forms a clump of rich chocolate-brown to purplish foliage that provides strong contrast in the landscape. In late summer to fall, clusters of small, fuzzy white flowers appear above the foliage, creating a dramatic effect and attracting pollinators. The dark leaves gradually take on greener tones as the season progresses, especially in less sun.

Mature Size:
Width: 2–3 ft
Height: 3–4 ft

USDA Zones: 4a–8b
Light: Full sun to partial shade (best color with some sun)
Soil: Average to moist, well-drained soils; tolerant of a range of conditions
Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but tolerates some dryness once established

Wildlife: Attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators

Features & Landscape Uses:
Form: Upright, clumping perennial with strong stems
Dark foliage provides excellent contrast in borders and shade gardens
Late-season white blooms extend garden interest into fall
Excellent for pollinator gardens, woodland edges, and mixed borders
Native plant that supports wildlife

Maintenance:
Cut back in late fall or early spring
Divide every few years to maintain vigor
Self-seeds in favorable conditions; remove unwanted seedlings if necessary

Plant type

Perennial

Height

3-5'

Width

2-3'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Fall, Fall, Late Summer, Summer

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Highly Adaptable, Well Drained

Landscape use

Border, Container, Pollinator garden

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No