Xanthorhiza simplicissima (Yellow Root)

Xanthorhiza simplicissima (Yellow Root) is a low-growing, spreading shrub with erect stems clothed with pinnately compound, deeply lobed leaves. Bright green in spring, the foliage turns showy shades of red, yellow, orange, or purple in fall. The plant boasts a profusion of arching sprays packed with small, plum-colored or maroon, star-shaped flowers with yellow centers in mid to late spring. Borne at the top of unbranched stems, they are attractive when viewed up close but not showy. The main asset of this plant is its elegant foliage. The stems and roots produce a deep-yellow dye when crushed, hence the common name. Native to eastern North America, Yellow Root occurs naturally in moist woodland areas with free-draining, acidic soils, where it spreads slowly by root suckers to form dense colonies, making it an excellent ground cover. Very adaptable, Yellow Root can help stabilize slopes and looks great in a naturalistic garden.

• Grows up to 6-30 in. tall (15-75 cm) and 6-10 ft. wide (180-300 cm).
• Performs best in part shade in acidic to neutral, moist but well-drained soils. Tolerates full shade in the southern part of its range and a wide variety of soil conditions, including wet soils, dry soils, or clay soils. Tolerant of occasional flooding or drought once established.
• Great for beds and borders, cottage gardens, woodland gardens, banks, and slopes, along ponds and streams, or as a groundcover.
• This plant enjoys excellent resistance to pests and diseases. Deer resistant.
• No routine pruning is necessary. Remove diseased, damaged, congested, or crossing shoots. After pruning, mulch and feed. If pruning is needed, prune immediately after flowering.
• Propagate by seed sown in containers outdoors in autumn or by division in spring or autumn.
• Native to the eastern United States.