Hydrastis canadensis aka Goldenseal

Hydrastis canadensis is also known as golden seal. It belongs to the buttercup family. This herb grows back each year. It comes from eastern North America. Its range spans southeastern Canada. It also spans the central and eastern United States. It grows in rich woods, on wooded slopes, and in valleys. Wild plants favor damp woods with soil rich in nutrients. These woods often lie over limestone or similar rocks. North Carolina lists it as endangered or of special concern.

Golden seal grows in upright clumps from a thick rhizome. This rootstock holds sap with a yellow tint. Garden plants reach about 0.75–1.25 feet [0.23–0.38 metres] tall. Their spread reaches about 1 foot [0.3 metres]. Some accounts give heights as low as 0.5 feet [0.15 metres]. Hair covers the stalk, which has no branches. Two green leaves sit near its top. Each has three to seven lobes and toothed edges. The leaves feel rough and give the plant a coarse texture. A large, wrinkled leaf grows at the base. It can reach 0.67 feet [0.2 metres] wide.

Each flower stalk has one small flower with no petals. Many pale stamens give it a greenish-white or yellow-green look. Several accounts report blooms in April and May. Chicago reports later bloom, from late May into June. Red fruit follows, with a berry-like form. Its shape recalls a raspberry. The fruit adds color from June through August. It is not edible. The plant draws bees, flies, birds, and squirrels.

Grow golden seal in part shade. It also tolerates deep shade. It needs moist soil that drains well. The soil should hold plenty of organic matter. Compost and leaf mold suit its woodland needs. Plain garden soil can support it when conditions suit it. It needs a moderate amount of water. It grows at a medium rate. Sources place it in USDA zones 3–8. They report little need for upkeep. They also report no serious pest or disease problems. Root cuttings offer one way to grow more plants. Use it in woodland gardens, native beds, or shaded borders. It also suits sites where plants can spread and grow freely.

People have used the rootstock as medicine and to repel insects. They have also used it to make yellow dye. Past uses include aids for digestion, tonics, and diuretics. These uses do not make the plant safe to eat. All parts contain alkaloids linked to low-severity poisoning in humans. Eating it may cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It may also cause nervousness or depression. The fruit is not a food crop despite its berry-like look. NC State reports no contact dermatitis, a rash from touch.