SafePlants

Golden Colicroot (Aletris aurea)

Considerations for Pets

• This plant grows from 1 to 3 feet high, which might be accessible to pets depending on their size and the plant's location.

Considerations for Children

• This plant grows from 1 to 3 feet high, which might be accessible to small children depending on their size and the plant's location.

Aletris aurea, commonly known as Golden Colicroot, is a perennial herb belonging to the genus Aletris.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Aletris aurea Walter
• Family: Liliaceae, Nartheciaceae
• Common Names: Golden Colicroot, Colicroot, Star grass, Yellow colic root
• Synonyms: Aletrisaurea Walter, Aletris lutea Small (considered similar distribution)

Distribution and Habitat

• Aletris aurea is found in the Southeastern United States, including states like Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, South Carolina, and Oklahoma.
• It thrives in boggy seeps, often in powerline clearings, and other wetland habitats.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is a forb/herb, meaning it's a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
• The plant grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet.
• It has basal leaves and a scape (leafless flower stalk).

Traditional Uses

• Historically, Aletris aurea was used to treat rattlesnake bites.
• The name "colicroot" originates from the belief that it could cure colic.

Quirky Facts

• It is also known as star grass, which refers to its lovely form.

Further Information

• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
• Discover Life
• Atlas of Florida Vascular Plants
• Dave's Garden (for gardening tips and ideas)