Connecticut Plants
Redroot
Lachnanthes caroliniana
Redroot is an endangered species in Connecticut.
- Synonyms: Lachnanthes caroliana , Lachnanthes tinctoria
- Family: bloodwort (Haemodoraceae)
- Habitat: sandy swamps, bogs
- Height: 4-18 inches
- Flower size: 1/2 inch long
- Flower color: dull yellow
- Flowering time: July to September
- Origin: native
Redroot buds are very hairy, and the open flowers are hairy on the outside. Photographed in Burlington County, New Jersey in late June.
Redroot fruits are reddish 3-parted capsules.
The roots of the plant are bright red-orange, hence the name "redroot." This plant was dug up in southern New Jersey, where redroot is abundant. Please don't treat Connecticut's redroot plants like this -- the plant is endangered in the state.