Goldenseal is a plant with a history! Also known as orangeroot and yellow puccoon, it was used by indigenous peoples in parts of North America for thousands of years, and remains popular with herbalists and natural healers today. You may have seen it in the woods nestled in deep shade. The name “goldenseal” comes from the rhizome’s yellow color and sap, traditionally used as a dye.
The Growth Of Goldenseal
In botanical terms, Hydrastis canadensis L. is described as a forb: a broadleaf (non-grass, characterized by wide leaves rather than needles) herbaceous (never developing wood) perennial flowering plant. It has an underground rhizome system, sometimes referred to as a creeping rootstock, meaning that its stem grows horizontally underground and produces branching roots in the same way as iris.
The Appearance Of Goldenseal
Goldenseal is a pretty little plant with a distinct appearance unlikely to be confused with that of any other plant. In the spring, dark green, slightly wrinkled, multi-lobed leaves appear on forked stems. The leaves usually span 3-12 inches. On the top leaves will appear a single small white flower without petals, eventually turning into a raspberry-like fruit later in the summer. Each fruit yields up to 30 black seeds.
Uses Of Goldenseal
Although the natural range of goldenseal used to extend from Quebec southward to Georgia and from the Atlantic coast to the Mississippi River basin, today the plant is considered endangered in the wild due to overharvesting. It is a naturally resistant plant with few pests or diseases in its ideal environment. The rhizome grows and spreads horizontally outward year after year.
Hardiness Zone: 3-7
Mature Height: 8-15 inches
Soil Preferences: Loamy, rich in organic matter, pH 5.5-6.5; add lime to increase growth if soil is too acidic; responds well to top-dressing and mulching
Water: Moist but well-drained; does well on slopes and raised beds
Light: Partial to full shade
Flowering Habit: Single white flower April-May, followed by a red berry-like fruit in midsummer
Growth Type: Perennial Propagation: Best results from rhizome pieces over ½ inch with attached roots and at least one bud
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