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Carolina redroot
Scientific Name: Lachnanthes caroliana
Family: Haemodoraceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names: CT (Carolina redroot), MA (redroot), MD (red-root)
Carolina Redroot (Lachnanthes caroliniana)
Carolina Redroot, also known simply as Redroot or Bloodroot, is a fascinating native plant with unique characteristics. This herbaceous perennial thrives in wet environments and is known for its vibrant colors and ecological significance.
Considerations for Pets
- This plant is considered toxic to livestock, indicating the presence of potentially harmful substances.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Lachnanthes caroliniana (Lam.) Dandy
- Common Names: Carolina Redroot, Redroot, Bloodroot, Paint Root
- Family: Haemodoraceae (Bloodwort Family)
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Synonyms: Gyrotheca tinctoria, Gyrotheca tinctorium, Lachnanthes (implied as incomplete synonym)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to Florida and found across the southeastern United States, from Louisiana to North Carolina and southern New Jersey.
- Also found in Maryland.
- Prefers boggy, wet locations such as wet pinelands, cypress swamps, and swampy grasslands.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Herbaceous perennial.
- Before blooming, its appearance is similar to an iris.
- Has a distinctive red rhizome.
- Flowers are yellow and arranged in a cyme.
- Leaves are simple.
Quirky Facts
- The genus name "Lachnanthes" comes from Greek and means "wool flower," referring to the hairy flowers of the plant.
Ecology and Interactions
- Attracts pollinators, especially butterflies such as black swallowtails.
- Plays a role in habitat restoration and is suitable for wet butterfly gardens.
Further Resources
- Poisonous Pasture Plants of Florida (UF-IFAS Bookstore Pub SP)
- Discover Life
- Wikimedia Commons