Sanguinaria

Family: Papaveraceae
Common Name: Bloodroot

The genus name is derived from the Latin sanguis, meaning 'blood', which refers to the colour of the plant's sap. An herbaceous perennial from North America, the leaves are blueish gray and the flowers are pure white with yellow anthers.

Species

S. canadensis is a delightful, low-growing plant, to 20 cm (8 in), with kidney-shaped leaves and white flowers. Cultivar 'Plena' has more showy, double flowers.

Cultivation

This lovely, woodland plant prefers a semi-shaded, moist spot in a well-drained soil. Propagate by division after flowering.

Climate

Zone 3. Cool, moist climates only.