Additional notes (click to expand)

Other use

Xanthorhiza simplicissima Marshall Ranunculaceae. Yellow root. Distribution: North America, where it was discovered by the plant collector and explorer William Bartram in 1773. Yellow-root. Austin (2004) reports that of the Native Americans, the Cherokee use the crushed plant to make a yellow dye; a decoction of the root cramps, blood tonic, to treat cancer, piles, sore eyes and for a sore throat The Catawba use it for colds, stomach ulcers, jaundice. The root is poisonous if 'too much' is taken. It was used as a 'bitters' in American drinks in the early 20th century. Genus name from the Greek, xanthos, for 'yellow', rhiza for 'root'.
Oakeley, Dr. Henry F. (2013). Wellcome Library notes. link

Geographical distribution

  • Northern America, Northeastern U.S.A.
  • Northern America, South-Central U.S.A.
  • Northern America, Southeastern U.S.A.

Xanthorhiza simplicissima Marshall

Family: RANUNCULACEAE
Genus: Xanthorhiza
Species: simplicissima Marshall
Common names: Yellow Root
Distribution summary: North America
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: H5 - Hardy; cold winter
Habitat: Woods, thickets, banks
Garden status: Not currently grown
Flowering months: March, April
Reason for growing: Other use


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