Sanguinaria canadensis, or Bloodroot, is one of our most prized native American woodland wildflowers.  Erupting from the ground in early spring, it always comes as a bit of a surprise to me when I first spot Bloodroot because the ornamental green foliage and white, anemone-like blooms arrive simultaneously.  The leaves are rolled when they first emerge, and then they slowly unfurl; the  pristine white flowers with yellow centers stand from six to eight inches high.  Bloodroot is the common name of Sanguinaria canadensis and is derived from its botanical name - sanguine, meaning consisting of or relating to blood - and the roots and stems do indeed contain orange-red sap.  I once read that Bloodroot is slow to spread from seed because as the seeds fall,  ants immediately carry them away.  This may not always be the case, but I have witnessed it.  Bloodroot is long lived and demands a moist, partial shade, and rich, humusy soil.   The flowers of Bloodroot only last for a few days, but even so, it is prized for its ethereal effect in both the woodland garden and rock gardens.   Zones 3-8.   Quarts.