Etymology: Hydrastis: Greek hydro for "water"
Plants: erect, perennial, 6"-20" tall forb; stems hairy; rhizomes yellow inside
Leaves: usually 1 basal and 2 alternate leaves on the stem near the top, widely heart-shaped with 5 toothed lobes and indented, palmate veins
Flowers: white, 7 or more-parted, 3 petal-like sepals falling off when the flower opens, no petals; stamens and pistils numerous forming a ball-like, solitary, terminal flower; blooms May
Fruits: red, 1-2 seeded berries in a rounded cluster
Habitat: shade; moderate moisture; woods; in rich soil
Hazardous: Careful, this plant is hazardous!
Conservation Status: Special Concern

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 10 WIS DNR-Bureau of Endangered Resources: Detailed information on Wisconsin listed species including state and federal status, photos, etc. USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources: Rare Species Guide; description, conservation, photos, maps, etc. Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. David G. Smith's "Delaware Wilflowers": Beautiful photographs; descriptions Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key Purple Sage - Ethnobotanical Information: Detailed usage, preparation, and other helpful information Southwest School of Botanical Medicine: Britton & Brown Illustrated Flora - 2nd Edition (1913) "An Illustrated Flora of the Northern United States and Canada"