Bloodroot - Sanguinaria canadensis

Bloodroot is a woodland spring ephemeral and herbaceous perennial. Charming white, yellow‑centered flowers appear on short stems, bringing an early splash of brightness to shaded gardens.

Plant Details

Family: Papaveraceae
Light Requirement: Shade
Water Needs: Moist
Height: 10 in
Spread: 4 in
Growth Rate: Slow
Bloom Time: Spring
Flower Color: White
Wildlife Value: Attracts bees

Notable Aspects

Native to the eastern United States, Bloodroot is ideal for brightening shaded corners with its pure white blooms and soft green foliage. As an understory plant, it thrives in full shade or dappled light; avoid full sun, as flowers remain closed on overcast or excessively bright days.

Landscape Uses and Maintenance

Group several plants together for greater visual impact—perfect for woodland, native, rock, or even formal gardens. Once established, Bloodroot is low‑maintenance, preferring moist, well‑drained soil enriched with humus, compost, or leaf mold to mimic its natural forest‑floor habitat. Plant alongside other spring ephemerals such as Virginia bluebells and trilliums for a recurring seasonal display.

The plant propagates reliably from seed and also spreads via rhizomes; dividing rhizomes can expand your colony. Deer and most other herbivores avoid Bloodroot.

Noteworthy Traits: As a spring ephemeral, this plant's delicate flowers bloom briefly, then disappear, leaving distinctive leaves that unfurl from tightly‑curled sheaths. The plant attracts various bees and beetles, adding ecological value to shaded garden spaces.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Spring

Bloom/Foliage Color

White

Height at Maturity

Under 12"

Care

Bloodroot plants prefer well-drained, moist soil rich in organic matter. Keep the soil moist, but avoid waterlogging mulch around the base to retain moisture and maintain a calm root environment. Divide the rhizomes in early spring to propagate.

Plant Reproduction

Bloodroot plant spreads by seed and rhizome.

How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Perennials, Tubers, and Bulbs

Bare root perennials, tubers, and bulbs are an easy and economical way to jumpstart your garden with lasting beauty. These dormant plants should be planted in early spring or fall while the soil is cool and workable. Before planting, soak bare roots in water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a location based on the plant’s light needs—most flowering types prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade.

For bare root perennials, dig a shallow hole and spread the roots out naturally, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. For tubers and bulbs, plant with the pointed side facing up at a depth about two to three times their height. Cover with soil, gently press down, and water thoroughly.

Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) until new growth appears. Add mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid covering the crown or bulb tops. Once established, these plants require little maintenance—just seasonal watering, occasional dividing, and deadheading or pruning as needed. With proper care, they’ll return and thrive year after year.

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