Bloodroot

a noticeable woodland flower of early spring. The white petals fall off soon after they come out. A large kidney-shaped leaf springs up beside each flower stalk. The leaves, flower stalks, and root-stocks are charged with a yellowish red juice that oozes out wherever they are broken. The blossom makes a handsome starry appearance above the dead leaves. In spite of its disagreeable juice it is endeared to children. "Bloodroots are out," is always hailed as an announcement of the happy flower season and of rambles in the woods. The bloodroot is a member of the poppy family. It is found only in the eastern United States and Canada. The plant has valuable medicinal qualities allied to those of opium. See Poppy