Haemodorum

Bloodroot

Other names: Blood Root
Family: Haemodoraceae
Habitat: Moist open heath, rocky sites in woodland
Uses: An orange-red dye can be made from the roots; anti-venom
Season:
References: Cherikoff, Robinson, Stockton

An erect tufted herb to about 1.5m high (Haemodorum planifolium) or to 50cm high (Haemodorum corymbosum). The leaves die off in late summer, leaving only the dead black inflorescences (flower heads). Nobody knows how these plants are pollinated. In hard times the roots were eaten after careful preparation, including pounding, mixing with earth and other indredients, and roasted — and even then, it was called “Mean fare” as it was barely edible, sometimes causing the Aboriginies' tongues to crack grievously. Eating this plant is therefore not recommended.

It is also noted as being used for an anti-venom.

Photo: Haemodorum planifolium. Glenbrook, Blue Mountains NSW

Photo: Haemodorum planifolium. Glenbrook, Blue Mountains NSW

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