Family: Ranunculaceae
Author: Marshall
Bibliography: Arbust. Amer.: 168 (1785)
Year: 1785
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Xanthorhiza
Vegetable: False
Observations: E. U.S.A. to E. Texas
Description
Yellowroot, scientifically known as Xanthorhiza simplicissima, is a unique and fascinating plant found in the Ranunculaceae family. Originally cataloged in 1785 by Marshall, Yellowroot is native to the eastern United States, with its range extending as far west as eastern Texas.
The plant’s common name, Yellowroot, is derived from its distinctive yellow-colored roots, which have been highly valued for their medicinal properties. Historically, Native Americans and early settlers used the roots in various traditional remedies, primarily for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits. The bright yellow color of the roots is due to the presence of berberine, a naturally occurring alkaloid known for its therapeutic properties.
Yellowroot is a low-growing, shrubby perennial that typically thrives in the understory of moist, shaded forests. It is characterized by its simple, pinnate leaves and clusters of small, star-shaped purple-brown flowers that bloom in early spring. The plant’s adaptability to different soil conditions and its relatively low maintenance requirements make it a resilient species in its natural habitat.
Ecologically, Yellowroot plays a significant role in its native regions. It acts as a ground cover, preventing soil erosion and providing a habitat for various insects and small wildlife. Additionally, due to its medicinal properties, it has garnered interest in herbal medicine and horticulture, making it a subject of both historical and contemporary significance.
In conclusion, Xanthorhiza simplicissima, or Yellowroot, is more than just a plant with a striking appearance. Its historical uses, ecological importance, and the continued interest in its medicinal potential highlight its value within the Ranunculaceae family and its native ecosystems.
Common Names
Deu: gelbwurz
Eng: yellowroot
Swe: gulrot
En: Yellowroot
De: Gelbwurz
Sv: Gulrot
Synonyms
- Zanthorhiza apiifolia (L’Hér.)
- Zanthorhiza apiifolia var. ternata (Huth)
- Actaea xanthorhiza (E.H.L.Krause)
- Xanthorhiza tinctoria (Woodf.)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Maine (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- New Hampshire (native)
- New York (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
- Maryland (introduced)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Apr 1, 2022 by malot w (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 8, 2021 by malot w (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 10, 2020 by frederick vetterlein (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2016 by EOL − jenny (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − WVU Herbarium (cc-by-nc-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jun 9, 2022 by L P (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 23, 2015 by EOL − Suzanne Cadwell (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 6, 2019 by lippens enrique (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 15, 2019 by Marie Keith (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 4, 2019 by Jeremy Jeremy (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jul 18, 2020 by Lea (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Jun 5, 2021 by Matt Miller (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jun 9, 2022 by L P (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Mar 20, 2016 by EOL − jenny (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − McDowell, L.C. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 7, 2016 by EOL − Laura Brenskelle (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 7, 2016 by EOL − Laura Brenskelle (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 27, 2016 by EOL − danafitz (cc-by-nc)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3033662)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:715221-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Xanthorhiza simplicissima Marshall)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Subshrub, Forb/herb
