Gillenia (
syn. Porteranthus) is a
genus of two
species of
perennial herbs in the
Rosaceae family. Common names for plants in this genus include:
Bowman's root,
Indian-physic,
American ipecac. This genus is
endemic to dry open woods with
acidic soils in eastern
North America. Both plants are
subshrubs with exposed semi-woody branches and
serrated leaves; the larger lower leaves are divided into palmately arranged leaflets. Plants bloom in May, June, or July; blooms are composed of five slender white
petals which are loosely arranged and typically appear slightly twisted and limp as if they were
wilted. The flowers mature into small capsules. These plants are often planted as
ornamentals and used medicinally as an herbal remedy.