Sanguinaria Canadensis Plena

Description

Sanguinaria Canadensis Plena is a double-flowered variety of Sanguinaria Canadensis, also known as bloodroot or redroot. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Papaveraceae family. Native to eastern North America, this plant is commonly found in deciduous forests and woodlands. It is known for its beautiful white flowers that bloom in early spring, followed by lobed leaves that appear after the flowers fade away. The plant contains an orange-red sap that has been used for medicinal purposes by indigenous people and herbalists for centuries.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Sanguinaria Canadensis Plena is a small plant that reaches a height of 6-8 inches and a spread of 6-12 inches. The flowers are double, with 8-12 petals that are pure white in color and about 1-2 inches in diameter. The plant has lobed leaves that are blue-green in color and grow up to 12 inches in diameter. The sap of the plant is orange-red and is released when the stem or roots are broken. This plant is a great addition to any woodland garden due to its delicate appearance and early spring bloom.

Care Guide

Sanguinaria Canadensis Plena is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips:

• Water: This plant prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate drought conditions once established.
• Fertilization: Bloodroot does not require fertilization, but you can add compost or organic matter to the soil before planting.
• Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate acidic or neutral soil.
• Sunlight: Bloodroot prefers partial shade to full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and flowers.
• Hardiness Zones: Bloodroot is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Sanguinaria Canadensis Plena is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues to watch out for:

• Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug pellets or hand-pick them off the plant.
• Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can affect the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing them to rot. Remove infected plant parts and improve air circulation.

Habitat

Sanguinaria Canadensis Plena is native to eastern North America, including the United States and Canada. It is commonly found in deciduous forests and woodlands, growing in moist soil and partial shade. It is a great addition to a woodland garden or naturalized area, where it can thrive alongside other spring-blooming plants like trilliums and ferns.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Sanguinaria Canadensis Plena a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, this plant is easy to grow and requires minimal care, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners.

Q: Can I grow Sanguinaria Canadensis Plena in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow bloodroot in a container as long as it has enough space to grow and the soil is well-drained.

Q: Can I propagate Sanguinaria Canadensis Plena by division?
A: Yes, you can divide the plant in early spring or fall by digging up the entire clump and separating the rhizomes.

Q: Does Sanguinaria Canadensis Plena have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, the orange-red sap of the plant has been used for medicinal purposes by indigenous people and herbalists for centuries. However, it is important to use it under the guidance of a professional as it can be toxic in large doses.

Related Plants

• Sanguinaria Canadensis
• Chelidonium majus
• Papaver somniferum
• Eschscholzia californica
• Meconopsis betonicifolia

References

• Dirr, M. A. (2002). Dirr’s Hardy Trees and Shrubs: An Illustrated Encyclopedia. Timber Press.
• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Sanguinaria Canadensis Plena. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278835&isprofile=0&
• University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. (n.d.). Sanguinaria Canadensis Plena. Retrieved from https://arboretum.wisc.edu/visit/gardens/wild-gardens/spring-gardens/sanguinaria-canadensis-plena/