Red Root
Ceanothus americanus
PLANT NAME
Red Root
COMMON NAMES
New Jersey Tea, Wild Snowball, Mountain Sweet
BOTANICAL NAME
Ceanothus americanus
IDENTIFICATION
A low, deciduous shrub growing up to 3 feet tall. It has toothed, ovate leaves and produces clusters of tiny white flowers in the summer. Its prominent, deep root system has a reddish color when cut.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Root and root bark (for medicine), leaves (for tea).
CULINARY USES
The leaves were famously used as a caffeine-free tea substitute during the American Revolution.
TRADITIONAL USES
The root is an astringent and powerful lymphatic stimulant. Historically used to treat swollen lymph nodes, tonsillitis, spleen enlargement, and to coagulate blood.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Thrives in dry, sandy, or rocky soils in open woods or prairies. Very difficult to transplant due to a massive taproot. The root is harvested in the fall or early spring.
SAFETY / CAUTION
High doses may cause gastrointestinal irritation due to tannins. Avoid during pregnancy. Always consult your doctor before using.
RELATED PLANTS
California Lilac (various Ceanothus species).