Bloodroot is an attractive, low-growing plant with lobed, waxy leaves which puts on pretty white flowers in very early spring. It can often be found growing in deep woods. It spreads naturally by rhizomes and seeds and can be easily propagated by both. The root of the bloodroot, which "bleeds" when cut, has a long history of use by Native Americans and has proven antimicrobial activities. It can be toxic, however, and should not be used casually.
Bloodroot is currently in demand because of its use in an animal feed product that is manufactured in Germany and sold in Europe. We have several studies on-going in western North Carolina on the propagation and cultivation of bloodroot. Results from these studies will be available starting in spring 2004.
Updated September 2003
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