Plant for Success

Bloodroot

By Simone Nemes

Why This Plant Shines

This spring ephemeral plant is best used as an early spring bloomer. Since this plant is a bit expensive to buy retail, it is best to plant a couple of the roots in a shady natural area that has lots of leaves and organic material. Garden in the Woods carries this rare ephemeral in their nursery.

I love using this plant because it is a native plant that naturalizes in woodland areas, and the seeds are spread by ants. It is a member of the poppy family and has sublime little white flowers that last only a few days. The foliage is very unique. Any client who is a native plant lover will love this plant as an addition to their garden.

This plant blooms in March or April, just as the snow is beginning to melt and before any other plants have put out their leaves. It is the ultimate harbinger of spring. I have found naturalized stands of it at the Stoneham Fells. They are rare and elusive to see in bloom in the wild.

This plant looks great planted with other natives such as trilliums, dicentra, or dutchman’s britches. Interestingly, bloodroot has roots that are orangey-red on the inside, and the root juice contains many alkaloids that can be caustic to the skin and poisonous if ingested. Who could imagine that such a beautiful spring flower could be so dangerous? Facts and Features Botanical Name: Sanguinaria canadensis Common Name: Bloodroot Type: Herbaceous perennial Zone: 3 to 8 Soil: Rich woodland or along streams, high organic content Size: 6-9 feet Growth Rate: Fast

Simone Nemes is with Jean Brooks Landscapes in Chelsea, Massachusetts.