One of the first wildflowers to bloom in Alabama is Bloodroot. It is common in deep, rich woods, and in warm years will bloom as early as February or March. Bloodroot has an underground stem called a RHIZOME that, when cut, reveals a bloody, red coloration that gives the plant its name. The rhizome can be poisonous, but extracts are often used in toothpastes to help promote healthy gums and teeth.