Native spring ephemeral • Woodland perennial • Early pollinator source
Sanguinaria canadensis, commonly called Bloodroot, is a beloved eastern woodland native that emerges very early in spring with pure white blooms followed by distinctive lobed foliage. A key nectar plant for early pollinators and a signature species of rich deciduous forests.
Part shade to full shade
Ideal under deciduous canopy
Morning sun is fine in spring
Summer shade protects dormant rhizomes
Avoid strong afternoon sun.
Average moisture
Prefers moist, humus-rich woodland soil
Tolerates summer dryness once dormant
Do not let soil completely dry in early spring
Rich, organic woodland soil
Leaf mold, compost, and humus welcome
Well-drained but moisture-retentive
Avoid compacted or waterlogged clay
USDA Zones 3–9
Strong cold tolerance
Thrives across eastern US woodlands
Very early spring, often March–April
Pollinator resource before most plants leaf out
Supports early-season native bees and flies
White flowers close on cloudy days, beautiful behavior.
Low-growing spring ephemeral
Dies back in summer heat
Spreads by rhizomes slowly
Forms elegant colonies over time
Not aggressive, but charmingly colonial
Plant rhizomes shallowly
Mulch with shredded leaves
Leave leaf litter for moisture and habitat
Avoid disturbing established rhizomes
Spacing: 8–12 inches
Shade gardens
Native woodland understory
Spring wildflower borders
Naturalistic forest plantings
Moist shade pathways
Pollinator-friendly woodland designs
Pairs beautifully with:
Trillium
Heuchera
Ferns
Foamflower (Tiarella)
Virginia bluebells (Mertensia)
Woodland phlox
One of the earliest blooming woodland natives and a crucial nectar resource for emerging pollinators. Its ephemeral cycle supports forest ecosystems and spring wildlife dynamics.
Normal, plant is dormant.
Avoid disturbing rhizomes; allow natural leaf mulch.
Needs early spring light or richer soil.