Contents
Description
Hydrastis Canadensis, also known as goldenseal, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to the Eastern United States and Southeastern Canada. It belongs to the Ranunculaceae family and is highly valued for its medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Hydrastis |
Appearance
Hydrastis Canadensis has distinctive features including a yellow, knobby rootstock, a single stem that grows up to 30cm tall, and two large leaves that resemble an open hand with 5-7 lobes. It produces a single white flower that appears in the late spring or early summer and gives way to a cluster of red berries.
Care Guide
Hydrastis Canadensis thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers partial to full shade and requires consistent moisture. Fertilization can be done in the spring using organic fertilizers. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrastis Canadensis is susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. It is also vulnerable to pests such as slugs, snails, and spider mites.
Habitat
Hydrastis Canadensis is native to the Eastern United States and Southeastern Canada. It thrives in deciduous forests and moist soils.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Hydrastis Canadensis?
A: Hydrastis Canadensis has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments including digestive issues, respiratory infections, and skin conditions.
Q: Can Hydrastis Canadensis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept consistently moist.
Q: Is Hydrastis Canadensis endangered?
A: Yes, it is considered an endangered species due to over-harvesting and habitat loss.
Q: How long does it take for Hydrastis Canadensis to mature?
A: It takes about 5-7 years for Hydrastis Canadensis to reach maturity.
Related Plants
- Coptis chinensis
- Berberis vulgaris
- Mahonia aquifolium
- Berberis thunbergii
References
- Hydrastis canadensis (L.) M. Roem. – Plants of the World Online – Kew Science. (n.d.). Retrieved October 11, 2021, from http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:504412-1
- Hydrastis canadensis – Goldenseal. (n.d.). Retrieved October 11, 2021, from https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/hydrastis_canadensis.shtml
- Hydrastis canadensis. (n.d.). Retrieved October 11, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m510
