Yellowroot

Xanthorhiza simplicissima

$23.00

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 3-9

Xanthorhiza simplicissima, commonly known as Yellowroot, is a resilient and low-maintenance native plant that is prized for its unique yellow roots, dense spreading habit, and ability to thrive in shady areas. Perfect for woodland gardens, stream banks, and naturalized landscapes, this hardy perennial is a top choice for ground cover and erosion control. Native to the eastern United States, Yellowroot naturally grows in moist, wooded areas and is an excellent solution for difficult, shaded spaces in the garden.

Versatile Ground Cover

Yellowroot is an ideal ground cover for areas where other plants may struggle. Its vigorous underground rhizomes allow it to spread quickly, forming dense colonies that help stabilize soil, making it particularly useful on slopes or in areas prone to erosion. Growing up to 1-2 feet tall, it creates a lush, green carpet of finely toothed leaves that turn a brilliant yellow or orange in the fall, adding year-round visual interest.

Subtle Spring Blooms

While primarily grown for its ground cover and erosion control properties, Xanthorhiza simplicissima produces small, star-shaped, purplish-brown flowers in early spring. These delicate blooms form in loose clusters along the stems, adding a touch of natural charm and attracting pollinators. Though the flowers are not the plant’s most striking feature, they complement the overall texture of the plant and contribute to its understated woodland beauty.

Photos courtesy of Julie Makin and Alan Cressler

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

PLANT DETAILS

Hardiness Zones: 3 - 9

Soil: Well-drained and Moist

Sun: Part Shade and Full Shade

Seasonal Behavior: Deciduous

Growth Rate: Moderate

Height at Maturity: 2 - 3 Feet

Spread at Maturity: 2 - 3 Feet

Xanthorhiza simplicissima produces delicate, star-shaped flowers that bloom in early spring (typically April to May). The flowers are small—around 0.5 inches in diameter—and appear in loose, drooping clusters along the stems. These blossoms are a deep, purplish-brown color, giving them a subtle, understated beauty that contrasts with the bright yellow of the plant’s roots (hence the common name, Yellowroot).

The flowers are not particularly showy but have a natural charm that suits woodland and shade gardens. After flowering, small seed capsules form, though these are not the plant’s primary feature of interest.

The plant's yellow roots are its most distinctive feature, often used in herbal medicine and dye-making. While the flowers are somewhat inconspicuous, they add early-season interest to the garden and provide a nectar source for pollinators.

small brown-purple, March - May

Sunlight: Xanthorhiza simplicissima thrives in partial shade to full shade, though it can tolerate some full sun, especially in cooler climates. For optimal growth, plant it in areas that receive dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade.

Soil: This plant prefers moist, well-drained soils with a slightly acidic pH. It thrives in humus-rich soils and can adapt to a variety of soil types, including loamy or sandy soils. While it tolerates wet conditions, especially near streams or ponds, it does not do well in constantly waterlogged soil.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, particularly during the plant’s first growing season. Once established, Xanthorhiza simplicissima is relatively drought-tolerant but will perform best with regular watering in dry spells, especially in hot climates.

Fertilization: Fertilization is not typically necessary for Xanthorhiza simplicissima, as it grows well in nutrient-rich organic soil. If soil quality is poor, a light application of compost or organic fertilizer in spring can promote growth.

Pruning: Pruning is not usually required, but trimming back dead or damaged stems in early spring can help maintain its shape and appearance. If the plant spreads too aggressively, it can be divided or cut back in early spring or late fall.

Propagation: Xanthorhiza simplicissima spreads through underground rhizomes and can be propagated by division in spring or fall. It can also be propagated by seed, though this method takes longer to establish.

Pests and Diseases: Yellowroot is generally pest-free and disease-resistant, making it a low-maintenance plant for woodland or shade gardens.

Winter Care: Hardy in USDA zones 3-9, Xanthorhiza simplicissima is highly winter-hardy and requires no special winter care. It will die back in colder climates but regrows vigorously in spring.

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