Bloodroot is a perennial herb in the poppy family.(9) It grows in the forests of the eastern United States and Canada in sheltered locations.(8) Bloodroot flowers early in the spring, before the trees leaf out.(6) The first bloodroot leaves appear wrapped around the flower buds in the spring.(8) As the flowers unfold into white, waxy star shapes with golden stamens, the leaves become distinctive and palmate with 5-9 lobes.(1,6) The entire plant stands 6-8 inches high with a similar spread.(21)

Bloodroot is on the United Plant Saver’s list of species at risk from over-collection or deforestation.(22)
Bloodroot can be propagated by seed or division. The seed matures 4-5 weeks after the flowers die and should be planted immediately, though they may not germinate until spring. Divide the rhizome in the fall, making sure to have a root bud on each division and replant right away. Grow in full shade and harvest the root in the 5th fall.(23)