Troubleshooting
Double Bloodroot problems — and how to fix them
Double Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis 'Multiplex') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Rhizome rot during dormancy
The sterile cultivar's rhizomes are slightly more sensitive than the species to summer wet. Ensure sharp drainage and consider lifting and storing rhizomes in sand if the site is prone to summer waterlogging.
Short above-ground season
Even the double form is dormant by midsummer. Companion-plant with summer ferns such as Polystichum or Dryopteris to fill the resulting gap and mark planting locations.
Virus-like mottling
Pale streaking or mottling on emerging foliage may indicate viral infection, which is more common in vegetatively propagated clonal cultivars. Destroy infected material; do not use for propagation.
Prevent double bloodroot problems before they start
Most double bloodroot issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Double Bloodroot problems — FAQ
Why is my double bloodroot rhizome rot during dormancy?
The sterile cultivar's rhizomes are slightly more sensitive than the species to summer wet. Ensure sharp drainage and consider lifting and storing rhizomes in sand if the site is prone to summer waterlogging.
Why is my double bloodroot short above-ground season?
Even the double form is dormant by midsummer. Companion-plant with summer ferns such as Polystichum or Dryopteris to fill the resulting gap and mark planting locations.
Why is my double bloodroot virus-like mottling?
Pale streaking or mottling on emerging foliage may indicate viral infection, which is more common in vegetatively propagated clonal cultivars. Destroy infected material; do not use for propagation.