Sanguinaria canadensis Blood root (Papaveraceae)

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Sanguinaria canadensis
Blood root
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The Sanguinaria canadensis plant species is found in Eastern N. America - Nova Scotia to Arkansas and N. Florida, west to Nebraska. It is a member of the Papaveraceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Blood root.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
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Latin Name:  Sanguinaria canadensis
Common Name:  Blood root
Family:  Papaveraceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  This species contains many alkaloids and is poisonous in large doses[4, 21, 46, 165]. This herb should not be used by women when thay are pregnant or lactating[165]. The sap, fresh or dried, can cause intense irritation to the mucous membranes[169].

Mature Height:  0.2   Mature Width:  0.3

Habitat:  Rich soils in open broadleaved woodland and on shaded slopes[21, 43, 165, 187].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a sandy soil but it is not fussy so long as the ground is not water-logged[1]. Requires a leafy soil in a cool position in the shade of deciduous trees[111, 187]. Thrives in sun or shade according to another report[1]. Plants grow freely in Britain if they are given a suitable site, and have even succeeded in an open position in a dry gravelly soil[4]. Tolerates a pH range from 5 to 7, or perhaps a bit higher[200]. Dormant plants are hardy to at least -20°c[187]. A very ornamental plant[1], but the flowers are very short-lived[187]. It can succeed in grass[1]. Plants are generally free of disease[200]. Polymorphic[1]. There is at least one named form with double flowers[187].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

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