Smith, R.W.
Coptis trifolia (L.) Salisb.
Threeleaf goldthread, Three-leaf goldthread, Canker root
Ranunculaceae (Buttercup Family)
Small and slender, this woodland
perennial bears a single flower at the end of a 6 in., leafless stalk. Each flower has four to seven, petal-like
sepals tinged with purple on their outer surface, and numerous white stamens. Basal,
evergreen leaves, divided into three leaflets, occur on long petioles.
The common name refers to the golden-yellow underground
stem that both
Native Americans and colonists chewed to treat mouth sores (hence another common name for the plant, Canker-root). It was also made into a tea for use as an eyewash.
Image Gallery:
7 photo(s) available
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial Habit: Herb Fruit: Size Class: 0-1 ft.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: White
Bloom Time: Apr , May , Jun , Jul
Distribution
USA: AK , CT , IN , ME , MD , MA , MI , MN , NH , NJ , NY , NC , OH , OR , PA , RI , VT , WV , WI
Canada: MB ,
NB ,
NS ,
ON ,
PE Native Distribution: Lab. to Man., s. to NJ, WV mts., n. OH & n. IN
Native Habitat: Mossy woods & swamps
USDA Native Status: L48(N), AK(N), CAN(N), GL(N), SPM(N)
Growing Conditions
Light Requirement: Shade
Soil Moisture: Moist
Soil pH: Acidic (pH<6.8)
Soil Description: Moist, cold, acid soils.
Conditions Comments: Not Available
Last Update: 2012-07-02
