Hydrastis canadensis / Goldenseal (Goldenseal Family)

This inconspicuous woodland plant can be quite beautiful when established in large patches. Newly emerged, bright green leaves shimmer in the spring air. The white flowers are born atop a small stalk above the large leaves. Flowers turn into crimson red fruit, but aren't around for long, as they are a favorite of birds and squirrels. Found naturally in shady, moist,organically and limestone rich soils, it adapts well to more average soils in the home garden. In ideal conditions it will spread by underground rhizomes to form large colonies. Goldenseal is known for its medicinal qualities and has been overharvested for many decades–only purchase plants from a reputable source. These plants are offshoots from very large patches established on family land. Some are also seed grown.
Blooms: White, 1-2 weeks, March-Apr.
Leaves: Flowering size plants have 2 large, bright green, lobed leaves that have a shimmery quality when first emerging
Height: 6-12”
Space: 1-3’
Soil: Average-Moist, rich
Exposure: Part shade-Shade
Fauna: Fruit for small mammals and birds
Seeds: Several highlighter yellow seeds are found in the single, crimson red fruit floating above the leaf
Deer Resistance: High
Zone: 3-8
Native Status: NC native, rare in the Mountains and Piedmont
Provenance: TN, asexually and seed propagated