Bloodroot, Bloodwort, Redroot, Puccoon, Tetterwort, Sanguinaire du Canada
Sanguinaria canadensis
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Bloodroot has limited permaculture uses. Its primary value lies in its medicinal properties, with the root traditionally used to treat skin conditions and respiratory ailments. However, due to its toxicity and the availability of safer alternatives, it is rarely used medicinally today. The plant is primarily grown for its ornamental appeal in shade gardens. No notable subspecies or cultivars for permaculture purposes are widely documented.
Permapeople description
An early spring ephemeral with a distinctive red sap. Used medicinally and as a dye.
Botanical description
Sanguinaria canadensis is a herbaceous perennial plant native to eastern North America. It belongs to the Papaveraceae family. It grows to 20–50 cm (8–20 inches) tall by 15 cm (6 inches) wide. It has a single basal leaf that is deeply lobed and kidney-shaped, emerging after the flower. The plant produces a single white flower with 8-12 petals, about 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) in diameter, from early to mid-spring. The stem contains a reddish-orange sap, hence the name 'bloodroot'. The flowers are ephemeral, lasting only a day or two. The root is a thick rhizome that spreads horizontally just below the surface of the soil. It prefers moist, well-drained woodland soils in partial to full shade. The fruit is a capsule that splits open to release seeds.
Companion planting
Bloodroot thrives in the shade of deciduous trees and shrubs. It pairs well with other woodland plants such as trilliums, ferns, mayapples, and hostas. Due to its poisonous nature and limited utility, no specific antagonistic plant relationships are widely noted.
Propagation methods
Bloodroot can be propagated by seed, division of the rhizome, or root cuttings. Seed germination can be slow and erratic. Division is best done in the fall after the foliage has died back. Rhizome fragments can be replanted horizontally just below the soil surface. Root cuttings can be taken in late winter or early spring.
History and traditions
Native Americans historically used bloodroot extensively. The reddish sap was used as a dye for clothing, baskets, and war paint. Medicinally, it was used to treat skin diseases, ringworm, and various other ailments. The Cherokee used it as an emetic, respiratory aid, and dermatological aid. European settlers adopted some of these uses, and it was once an ingredient in some patent medicines. However, its use has declined due to toxicity concerns.
Usage calendar
Flowering: Early to mid-spring (March-April). Planting: Fall (September-October) or early spring (March-April). Division: Fall (September-October). Seed Collection: Late spring (May-June). Pruning: Not typically required; remove dead foliage in late fall or early spring.