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sanguinaria

Scientific Name: Alternanthera ficoidea

Family: Amaranthaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis)

Sanguinaria canadensis, commonly known as bloodroot, is a captivating spring wildflower with a rich history and a unique characteristic – its striking red sap.

Considerations for Pets

  • Bloodroot plants, Sanguinaria canadensis, get their name from the dark red sap found in the stems and roots, which resembles blood.

Considerations for Children

  • Bloodroot plants, Sanguinaria canadensis, get their name from the dark red sap found in the stems and roots, which resembles blood.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Sanguinaria canadensis L.
  • Common Names: Bloodroot, red puccoon, Indian paint, redroot, pauson, tetterwort, puccoon, sanguinaire du Canada, sang-dragon.
  • Family: Papaveraceae (Poppy family)
  • Genus: Sanguinaria (monotypic - containing only one species)
  • Synonyms: Sanguinaria acaulis, Sanguinaria grandifolora, Sanguinaria minor, Sanguinaria canadensis var. rotundifolia.

Distribution and Habitat

Bloodroot is native to eastern North America and is commonly found in rich woods and along streams. Its presence signals the arrival of spring in these environments.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Bloodroot is a stemless, rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial.
  • The plant typically grows to a height of 3-12 inches.
  • It has kidney-shaped, lobed blue-green leaves.
  • It features cup-shaped white flowers that open in early spring.
  • The plant is named for the carmine-colored juice (sap) present in its rhizomes and roots.

Quirky Facts

  • Bloodroot displays its beauty in two stages: first, with stunning white blossoms that appear briefly in early spring, emitting a wonderful fragrance; later, with its attractive foliage.
  • Historically, eastern farmers' wives considered bloodroot an essential domestic remedy to have on hand for the winter.

Traditional Uses

  • Bloodroot was prized by Native Americans for its root sap, which resembles blood.
  • The roots were traditionally used to make washes, poultices, snuffs, and dental powders.

Further Information

  • MICHIGAN FLORA ONLINE
  • Appalachian Center for Ethnobotanical Studies (Tai Sophia Institute)