WHITE
April-May

BLOODROOT
Sanguinaria canadensis
Poppy Family
Flower: 1-1.5” wide
Plant: 6-10” high

    This is a solitary, pure white flower with a golden center, 8-10 petals and a smooth, leafless, orange stem.  Growing beside the flower stalk is a single bluish-green leaf, 4-7” long, with 5-9 lobes.  The leaf curls protectively around the bud until it blossoms, after which the leaf unfolds, reaching up to 8” in width.

    Large patches of Bloodroot are often found in rich woods and along stream banks.  The flower opens only in bright light and lasts but a short time.  The roots and stem have a reddish juice that was once used by Indians as a dye and warpaint.