Coptis

Coptis - The interesting genus Coptis belongs to the Ranunculus family, and consists of about half a dozen species of low-growing evergreen plants spread over the whole of the North Temperate Zone. Coptis is closely related to Anemone, Helleborus and Thalictrum. The name Coptis signifies "cut" in reference to the numerous divisions of the leaves. The species are mostly woodland plants, and all thrive in partly shaded situations. They flower very early in the year, and are useful subjects for the rock garden. Most of the species produce seeds, by means of which they can be increased. All grow well in light, rich, well-drained soils that do not become excessively dry. The following five species are probably all in cultivation:—

Coptis Pictures

Coptis trifolia (L.) Salisb.threeleaf goldthread

Related Flowers

Coptis Asplenifolia

Coptis Asplenifolia - The leaves of this species have very much the appearance of the Spleenwort or Asplenium, from which the specific name is derived. They are biternate, while the leaflets are pinnatifid and deeply cut. The scapes grow about 9 inches high, and usually bear two white flowers with five petals. This species is found in the Sphagnum bogs of N.W. America and also in Japan.

Coptis Brachypetala

Coptis Brachypetala - This plant is similar to C. asplenifolia in habit, but has more finely-cut leaves, which have acute divisions. The pretty white flowers are produced early in March on scapes a few inches high. This species is a native of Japan.

Coptis Occidentalis

Coptis Occidentalis - This is one of the largest species. It grows more than a foot in height. The leaves are trifoliolate and the leaflets are about 3 inches across, deeply and unequally cut and lobed. The white flowers have six petals and are usually produced three together on each scape. N. America.

Coptis Orientalis

Coptis Orientalis - This species blooms in February, and makes a good plant for the alpine house with its bronzy leaves and scapes of white flowers. When in flower the plant is about 6 inches high; the flower scapes of this species, as well as those of all the others, develop considerably after flowering. Japan.

Coptis Trifolia

Coptis Trifolia - This, the most widely spread and commonest species of all the Coptis, is found in the mossy woods of Canada, Siberia, and N. Europe. It forms a dwarf-growing, creeping plant with trifoliolate leaves and pretty white flowers on single-flowered scapes 3 to 4 inches long. The roots are yellow, and together with the leaves are used for producing a yellow dye. From this fact it receives its common name of "Gold Thread." It is a suitable plant for the peaty bog, soon spreading and forming an evergreen carpet studded from April to July with flowers.—Gardeners Chronicle.

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