Common Name: Bloodroot

Gentle spring sun but shaded in summer, moderately wet to moderately dry moisture level, humus rich soil, slightly acid to neutral pH.  6-8 inches height, blooms in early spring, white flowers, can self-sow in good locations.

Germination Code:  F, L.   Difficult from seed.

Native Region: Primarily Middle and East Tennessee

Showy flowers are wrapped in leaves when they first emerge and rise from the center as the leaf uncurls.  Flowers open up in sun but close at night.  Leaves continue to grow after flowering is done and can reach as much as 9 inches across.  Bloodroot cannot handle competition.  Can form large colonies on the forest floor under ideal conditions.  Roots may be poisonous if eaten.  Dies back in summer.