Anvhyi
Blood Root, a perennial member of the Poppy Family, is indigenous to the Northeastern United States and frequently found in most wooded areas. Blood Root is initially identifiable, during the first week of March, by the distinctive white flowers that are among the first to appear in early spring. Each root produces a single white flower with 8 to 10 petals that open int he sunlight and close at night. As the flower petals falls, they produce a two pointed seed capsule that is known to attract ants who take the seed to their nests where they are protected until they germinate.
Blood Root is best identified by its striking multi-lobed leaves which resemble a heart shape, remaining deep green until early July. Blood Root reaches a height of about 10" with each leaf growing up to 12" across which slightly clump toether on hillsides and semi sandy and rocky soil.
Cherokees have many words to describe Blood Root according to its function and use. Known for its medical qualities and use as a paint and natural dye medium, Blood Root continues to play a significant role in Cherokee traditions. Cherokee Elders teach us to care for this sacred plant by only lightly harvesting when needed, with more concern toward protecting and repopulating it for future generations.
Source: Cherokee Native Art and Plant Society, 2010
