Status in Florida: Native 
Native Habitat: Woodlands, forest edges, shaded areas
Native State, Country: Eastern and Central North America
Growing Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Size at Maturity: 2-4 feet tall
Phenology: Deciduous 
Life Cycle:Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate
Growth Habit: Upright, Clumping
Bloom Season: Fall
Sunlight Requirements: Part-Shade, Shade
Soil Texture: Loam, Adaptable
Soil pH: Slightly Acidic, Adaptable 
Moisture Requirements: Moist, Average
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low/None
Keystone Plant: No
Recommended Landscape Uses:
* **Use with caution:** While attractive, its toxicity makes it unsuitable for most landscapes, especially those with children or livestock. 
Naturalized areas: May be appropriate in a wildflower garden or naturalized area away from areas where it could be accidentally ingested.
Pollinator gardens: If used, plant in a controlled area and clearly label its toxicity.
Maintenance Tips:
Requires minimal maintenance.
May need to be controlled to prevent spreading, as it can self-seed.
Considerations:
* **Highly toxic** to humans and animals.
Can cause "milk sickness" if milk or meat from animals that have grazed on it is consumed.
Hurricane Wind Resistant: No
Erosion Control: No
Nitrogen Fixing: No
Edible: Highly Toxic
Pet Safe: No
Deer and Rabbit Resistance:Yes
Historical Medicinal Uses (if applicable): Used by Native Americans to treat snakebites and other ailments (use is **not recommended** due to toxicity).
Florida Native Companion Plant (matching growing conditions): Woodland Sunflower (Helianthus divaricatus),  Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa)
Wildlife Benefit: Pollinators (bees, butterflies, moths) in the fall when other nectar sources are scarce.
Caterpillar Host Plant: Yes, Ruby Tiger Moth and others
Propagation: Seed
Length of time Seed is Viable: Unknown (likely 1-2 years)
Best month to Start Seeds: Fall or Spring
Seed treatments: Cold Stratification may improve germination.