Bloodroot Sanguinaria canadensis

Written By: Highlands Biological Station | Issue: 2015/05 - May | Photograph By: Ezra Gardiner

Bloodroot, Sanguinaria canadensis L., is a member of the Papaveraceae family. It is a native spring wildflower that grows in our rich woodlands. It can grow in full sun, but is more often found in semi-shaded, light-wooded areas with moist, acidic soil. A perennial that grows up to 10 inches tall, the plant has a single, basal leaf that can be as wide as eight inches. The flower is located on a separate stalk and is white with a yellow center. Bloodroot is one of the first wildflowers to bloom beginning in late winter and continuing into early spring. The “root,” consisting of a thickened rhizome covered with fibrous roots, is known for its reddish-orange color.