Bloodroot - Sanguinaria candensis
 
Bloodroot, Sanguinaria canadensis, is a spring-blooming perennial native to Eastern North America. Plants grow 6 to 10 inches tall and spread slowly over time through underground rhizomes to form a colony. White flowers emerge in early spring and are followed by attractive, palmate leaves that persist until mid-summer. Bloodroot goes dormant in mid to late summer until the following spring. Bloodroot’s common name derives from the abundant red sap secreted from all parts of the plant, particularly rhizomes. Its red sap has a historical use in dye making. Bloodroot grows in moist, rich soils under a deciduous, hardwood canopy. Plant with other shade-loving plants such as ferns and shrub yellowroot.
 
Photo: Emerson Sapienza