Yellowroot Xanthorhiza simplicissima
ABOUT
The species known commonly as yellowroot features a unique and striking appearance, most notable for its intricate underground system, where it derives its common name. The plant exhibits compound leaves that are finely divided, giving them a featherlike quality. Each leaf bears small, sharply toothed leaflets that add to the delicate aesthetic. During the blooming season, small, purplish-brown flowers appear that tend to cluster at the base of the leaves, adding a subtle touch of color to the plant's greenery. Post flowering, the plant produces small, elongated fruits that further differentiate it from other species in its habitat. Another striking component of yellowroot is its stems, which exhibit a bright yellow inner bark, providing a vibrant contrast when exposed. This characteristic root system is famous not just for its color, but also for the fact that it has been historically used for a variety of purposes due to its colorant properties. The overall impression of yellowroot is one of a lush, finely-textured plant that awaken interest and curiosity both with its above-ground beauty and its vividly colored roots.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Yellowroot, Shrub Yellowroot, Yellow Root, Common Yellowroot, Simplestem Bitterroot, Southern Yellowroot.
Common names
Xanthorhiza apiifolia.
ToxicityTo humans
Yellowroot is generally considered non-toxic to humans when used appropriately. Historically, it has even been used for its medicinal properties. However, excessive consumption of any plant may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or other adverse effects.
To pets
Yellowroot is not widely known to be toxic to pets. However, as with humans, the consumption of large amounts of any plant material may potentially cause digestive upset or other issues in animals. Care should always be taken to prevent pets from ingesting large quantities of non-food plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Eastern North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to Grow: Xanthorhiza simplicissima, commonly known as yellowroot, is considered easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions.
- Shade Tolerance: Yellowroot can grow well in partially shaded areas, making it suitable for woodland gardens or areas under tree canopies.
- Erosion Control: With its dense root system, yellowroot can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and banks.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers of yellowroot provide nectar for early-season pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
- Landscaping: With its attractive, feathery foliage and interesting, intricate stems, yellowroot adds texture and color to landscaping designs.
- Drought Resistance: Yellowroot can tolerate periods of drought once established, making it a low-maintenance choice for drier areas.
- Naturalized Plantings: Being native to North America, yellowroot is well-suited for naturalized or wild gardens, contributing to local ecosystems.
Medical Properties- Antitussive: Yellowroot has been traditionally used to alleviate coughs.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant is believed to contain compounds that help reduce inflammation.
- Gastric aid: It has been used to improve digestion and relieve stomach issues.
- Tonic: Yellowroot has been used as a tonic to improve general health and well-being.
- Cholagogue: It has been used to stimulate bile production and aid in the treatment of liver and gall bladder issues.
- Astringent: Due to its tannin content, yellowroot can have an astringent effect, which has been used in the treatment of diarrhea and wound healing.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Xanthorhiza simplicissima, commonly known as yellowroot, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding a rich yellow hue due to its berberine content, which imparts color.
- The rhizomes of yellowroot have been traditionally used by indigenous people to tan leather, providing a yellow to reddish-brown color, depending on the concentration and type of leather.
- The bitter taste of yellowroot makes it a natural deterrent for garden pests, thereby being utilized as a protective border plant around vegetable gardens.
- Its dense, mat-forming habit makes yellowroot an ideal plant for erosion control on slopes and riverbanks, as its strong roots can help hold the soil in place.
- Yellowroot's attractive foliage and stem coloration can be harvested and used in floral arrangements, especially in autumn when the leaves turn reddish-purple.
- As a habitat plant, yellowroot provides shelter and rooting material for various types of woodland wildlife, including insects and small mammals.
- Its ability to thrive in wet soil conditions makes yellowroot suitable for rain garden installations, where it contributes to water filtration and run-off reduction.
- Yellowroot can be incorporated into landscape designs as an ornamental ground cover, particularly in shaded areas where its leaves and stems create visual interest.
- Its hardiness and adaptability to different soil conditions allow yellowroot to be utilized in the restoration of disturbed sites, such as after mining or construction.
- For those practicing permaculture, yellowroot is valued for its role in creating a sustainable and self-sufficient garden ecosystem.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiYellowroot is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityYellowroot is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing - Xanthorhiza simplicissima, commonly known as Yellowroot, contains berberine, which has been used traditionally for its medicinal properties and to represent healing abilities.
- Purity - The bright yellow pigment of Yellowroot's roots, often linked to cleanliness and purity, symbolizes the plant's ability to purify the body and potentially cleanse the spirit.
- Resilience - Yellowroot, being a hardy plant that can thrive in various conditions, often symbolizes the ability to adapt and survive through challenging circumstances.
WaterThe Yellowroot should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Generally, it is recommended to water this plant roughly once a week during the growing season, but this can vary depending on soil conditions and climate. Aim to provide the Yellowroot with about 1 inch of water, which equates to approximately 0.6 gallons per square foot, every week during active growth. During the dormant season, reduce watering to every other week or even less frequently, depending on how quickly the soil dries out. It is important to water the plant at its base and avoid overhead watering to prevent foliar diseases.
LightThe Yellowroot thrives in partial to full shade conditions. It is advisable to place the plant in a spot where it can receive filtered sunlight or be shaded during the hottest parts of the day. Avoid direct, intense sunlight as it might scorch the leaves and affect the plant's health. The ideal location for Yellowroot would be under the canopy of larger trees or on the north side of a building where it will receive sufficient light without being exposed to harsh sunlight.
TemperatureYellowroot prefers a temperate climate and grows best in temperatures ranging between 50°F and 70°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 0°F but will not tolerate extremely hot conditions well. It is crucial to protect the Yellowroot from frost damage during colder months and provide a cooler, shaded environment during periods of intense summer heat.
PruningPruning the Yellowroot is generally done to remove dead or damaged wood and to maintain the plant's natural shape. Pruning should be carried out in early spring before new growth begins. It is not necessary to prune the Yellowroot often; once per year is typically enough. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts and avoid tearing the stems.
CleaningAs needed
SoilYellowroot prefers a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter with a pH of 5.0 to 6.5. A mix of peat moss, compost, and perlite would suit it well, ensuring good moisture retention while preventing waterlogging.
RepottingYellowroot does not require frequent repotting; it can be repotted every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound to maintain healthy growth.
Humidity & MistingYellowroot thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, replicating its native woodland habitat; around 50-70% humidity is ideal for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Yellowroot in shaded area with indirect sunlight and ensure high humidity.
Outdoor
Plant Yellowroot in shaded areas with moist soil and organic mulch.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Xanthorhiza simplicissima, commonly known as yellowroot, begins with seed germination. The seeds require a period of cold stratification before they can successfully sprout. Upon germination, the plant develops a rosette of leaves close to the ground. As it matures, yellowroot forms a woody, branching rhizome from which multiple stems emerge, each adorned with compound leaves that have a soft texture. During spring, the plant produces small, purplish-brown flowers organized in racemes, which are followed by the development of dry fruit capsules containing seeds. The plant then goes through a period of dormancy in the winter, dropping its leaves and preserving energy in its rhizomes until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagation for Xanthorhiza simplicissima, commonly known as yellowroot, involves the division of its rhizomes. The best time for rhizome division is in the late winter to early spring before new growth begins. Gardeners typically dig up the clumps of yellowroot and gently separate the rhizomes, making sure that each division has at least one or two growth points. The divisions are then planted in moist, well-draining soil at the same depth they were previously growing. Care should be taken to space the divisions about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. After planting, the area should be watered thoroughly to help establish the new plants.
