Hydrastis canadensis (Goldenseal)

A good groundcover for moist, shady places, Hydrastis canadensis (Goldenseal) is a charming clump-forming perennial boasting intriguing small flowers, one per stem, without petals and sepals (the sepals fall off as the flowers open), and adorned with many white stamens which extend from their centers. Blooming in mid-late spring, these rather ephemeral beauties are borne atop a hairy stalk bearing a pair of maple-like, shiny-green leaves. They rise above a single, wrinkled, basal leaf, similar in shape but larger than the stem leaves, 8 in. wide (20 cm). The flowers are followed by a tight cluster of attractive but inedible scarlet red berries, loved by birds. Goldenseal arises from a gnarly yellow rhizome from which it gets its common name. The plant was used medicinally by Native Americans and colonists for skin diseases, wounds or eye infections. Goldenseal has acquired a well-deserved reputation and is one of the most collected of eastern North American medicinal herbs. Today it is used to treat symptoms of cold and flu and as an astringent, antibacterial remedy for the mucous membranes of the body.

• Grows up to 10-15 in. tall and wide (25-37 cm).
• Easily grown in moist, well-drained soils in part shade to shade. A deciduous leaf winter cover is desirable.
• Excellent choice for woodland gardens, native plant gardens.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• Easily propagated by seed, division or root cuttings. To propagate by division, divide the rhizomes when the plant is dormant.
• Native to southeastern Canada and the eastern United States.