SafePlants

White Colic-root (Aletris farinosa)

Aletris farinosa, commonly known as White Colic-root, is an attractive native wildflower found in open, often sandy sites across much of the eastern United States.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that the fresh root is a known hazard. The specific nature of the hazard is not detailed.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that the fresh root is a known hazard. The specific nature of the hazard is not detailed.

Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Aletris farinosa L.
• Family: Liliaceae (Lily family)
• Genus: Aletris
• Species: farinosa
• Synonyms: Aletris alba Michx., Aletris lucida Raf.

Common Names

• White Colic-root
• Whitetube stargrass
• Ague grass
• Ague horn
• Agueroot
• Aletris root
• Aloe
• Aloeroot
• Backache root
• Unicorn Root
• White stargrass
• Mealy Star-grass
• Northern White Colicroot
• Crow-corn

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to much of the eastern United States.
• Found in northeast Illinois, and other locations in the eastern US.
• Grows in open, often sandy sites, including sandy forests with oak, pine, and saw palmetto.
• Also found near wetter areas with cypress trees.

Morphology and Growth

• Herbaceous perennial plant.
• Tall flowering stalk that reaches 40 to 100 centimetres.
• Bears a raceme or spike-like cluster of white to creamy white flowers.
• Flowers are 7-10 mm in length, consisting of six white tepals.
• The perianths of the flowers have an unusual rough texture.
• Basal leaves are present.

Quirky Facts

• The name "colic-root" comes from the historical belief that it could cure colic.
• The species name "farinosa" refers to the powdery coating on the flowers.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Observed alongside Grass pink orchid (Calapogon pulchellus).

Further Information

• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
• Discover Life
• Dave's Garden
• Ontario Wildflowers