It is valued for its ability to thrive on moist shady slopes. Yellowroot is used as a tall ground cover or in borders. Plant in moist soil in light to full shade. Zones 4 to 10. The benefits of careful soil preparation carry over from year to year.
Satisfactory results depend largely on properly prepared soil.
To test whether the soil has good drainage, dig a hole about a foot deep and fill it with water. The next day, fill it with water again and see how long the water remains. If the water is absorbed in 8 to 10 hours, the soil drainage is sufficient for planting. If water remains in the hole after 10 hours, the drainage is poor and should be improved. If it is not improved, water may begin to collect and rot the roots.