Bowman's root (Gillenia trifoliata), also known as Indian physic, is a perfectly stunning late spring perennial of Appalachia's upland woods, most often found at higher elevations. A member of the rose (Rosaceae) family, the plant has a long history of medicinal use, as both a laxative and emetic, first by Native Americans and then by white settlers. The trifoliate leaves are sharply toothed and alternate on red, branching stems. The white, star-shaped flowers have five sharply-flared petals of unequal length. A lover of partially sunny locations with dry to moist soil, Bowman's root is the perfect pollinator plant for a native wildflower garden and attracts skippers by the hordes, such as the silver-spotted skipper (Epargyreus clarus) above.
Photos from a secluded spot along the Highland Scenic Highway in the Monongahela National Forest.
