Contents
Description
Sanguinaria, also known as bloodroot, is a flowering plant native to eastern North America. It belongs to the Papaveraceae family and is known for its medicinal properties. The plant gets its name from the red sap in its roots, which was traditionally used as a dye by Native Americans.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Sanguinaria |
Appearance
Sanguinaria has lobed leaves and white flowers with yellow centers. The flowers bloom in early spring and only last for a few days. The plant grows up to 6 inches tall and spreads via rhizomes. The roots of the plant contain a red-orange sap that can be toxic if ingested.
Care Guide
Sanguinaria prefers well-draining soil and partial shade. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels but prefers slightly acidic soil. The plant should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost in the spring can help improve soil quality. Sanguinaria is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sanguinaria is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by slugs and snails, which can eat the leaves and flowers. Powdery mildew can also be a problem in humid conditions.
Habitat
Sanguinaria is native to eastern North America and can be found in wooded areas, along stream banks, and in damp meadows. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sanguinaria a poisonous plant?
A: Yes, the roots of the plant contain a red-orange sap that can be toxic if ingested.
Q: How tall does Sanguinaria grow?
A: The plant grows up to 6 inches tall.
Q: What is the blooming season for Sanguinaria?
A: The plant blooms in early spring and the flowers only last for a few days.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Sanguinaria?
A: Slugs, snails, and powdery mildew can affect Sanguinaria.
Related Plants
- Papaver orientale
- Eschscholzia californica
- Meconopsis
- Chelidonium majus
References
- “Sanguinaria.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 21 September 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c292>.
- “Sanguinaria canadensis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 21 September 2021. <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SACA3>.
- “Sanguinaria canadensis.” North Carolina State University. Accessed 21 September 2021. <https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/sanguinaria-canadensis/>.
