Named for its red-orange sap, which seeps from cut roots and stems.
Produces a single white flower with 8–12 petals and bright yellow stamens, often before its leaves fully unfurl.
Leaves are large, lobed, and gray-green, wrapping protectively around the flower stalk before opening.
Spreads slowly by rhizomes, forming colonies over time.
Seeds are dispersed by ants (myrmecochory), which are attracted to the fatty elaiosomes attached to the seeds.
The red-orange sap was historically used as a natural dye and in traditional medicine, though it is toxic if ingested.
Highly valued for its early blooms and striking contrast against the forest floor.
Named for its red-orange sap, which seeps from cut roots and stems.
Produces a single white flower with 8–12 petals and bright yellow stamens, often before its leaves fully unfurl.
Leaves are large, lobed, and gray-green, wrapping protectively around the flower stalk before opening.
Spreads slowly by rhizomes, forming colonies over time.
Seeds are dispersed by ants (myrmecochory), which are attracted to the fatty elaiosomes attached to the seeds.
The red-orange sap was historically used as a natural dye and in traditional medicine, though it is toxic if ingested.
Highly valued for its early blooms and striking contrast against the forest floor.
Bloom: early to mid-spring
Habitats: areas along woodland paths; banks of rivers in wooded areas; edges of bluffs; rich deciduous woodlands; shaded ravines; wooded slopes
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: mesic
Plant type (height): forb (3 to 12 inches)
Requirements: dappled sunlight
Soil: fertile loam
