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Coptis aspleniifolia
Introduction
Coptis aspleniifolia, commonly known as Fern-Leaved Goldthread, is found in the northern two-thirds of British Columbia, in Alaska, and along the Cascades into Washington and is a native plant of the Coast (temperate) Forest Region. It is often found in the understory of the herb layer of carniferous mountain forests as part of a multilayered canopy system on gleysolic or organic soils on watering sights. Also found in wetwoods and bogs, the Fern-leaved Goldthread is not invasive or poisonous. On a rating system created by the province ranging from S1, critically imperiled or rare – S5, “common, widespread, and abundant in the province”, the Fern-leaved Goldthread is an S5.
An evergreen perennial, the Fern-leaved Goldthread is mostly hairless and 5-30cm tall. Its leaves resemble those of Ferns, are all basal, dark-green and glossy and divided into 5 or more segments. The Fern-leaved Goldthread blooms late April/May with a pale greenish white/yellow flower. It has 2-3 nodding flowers per stalk, 5-7 delicate septals and 5-7 thin petals. The Fern-leaved Goldthread is a member of the Buttercup Family.
The Fern-leaved Goldthread is named for its leaves which are structured similar to the common fern and for its roots, which are vibrant golden hue when peeled.
The Fern-leaved Goldthread is an important part of the ecosystem, serving as a protective ground cover, keeping moisture in the ground by providing shade, as well as primary nutritional food source for deer.