Golden seal has been used medicinally as an antibiotic, a treatment for hay fever and the flu, and an insect repellant just to name a few. (You should do some research if you plan on using it medicinally; all parts of the plant are poisonous if eaten in large doses.)A white flower in April/May is followed by inedible red, raspberry-shaped fruits in June/July.Golden seal is an attractive medicinal herb for the shade garden. It prefers rich, organic soil. Plant it with celandine poppy, blue bells, and woodland spiderwort.Uses: medicinal, shaded areas, dyeBloom time: April - MayHeight: 6 to 10 inchesSpace: 8 to 10 inchesSun: Full shadeMoisture: Average to moist