About Lithospermum caroliniense (J.F.Gmel.) Mac Mill.
Lithospermum caroliniense, commonly called hairy puccoon, was formally described by Dr. Robert W. Poole and Dr. Patricia Gentili. Its flowers are large, reaching up to 1 inch in diameter, and are yellow-orange in color. Each flower has 5 petals, with the basal portions of the petals fused to form a long corolla tube that hides the stamens. Flowers are arranged either in a flat-topped cluster or in weakly curled, short sprays. The stem and leaves of the plant are covered in coarse hairs. Leaves are broadest at their middle, taper at both ends, and have smooth outer margins. Mature plants reach a height between 1 and 2.5 feet. For cultivation, Lithospermum caroliniense requires a warm, sunny position in moderately fertile, well-drained, lime-free sandy soil. A red dye can be obtained from the dried or pulverized roots of this plant. Powdered root of the plant has also been used to treat chest wounds.
