Also known as Yellowroot, Alaska Goldthread, Canker Root, Mouth-Root, Common Goldthread, Trifoliate Goldthread, Vegetable Gold; Coptis, Dye Root, Golden-Seal. Goldenroot, Yellow Snakeroot, The Goldthread’s roots is yellow or gold in colour and a yellow dye can be extracted. It is reported that Native Americans chewed its roots to treat mouth sores (hence the names Canker Root and Mouth-Root). This perennial herb is a member of the Buttercup family.
Although the Goldthread somewhat resembles the strawberry plant with its shiny dark green leaves and small white flowers, it bears fruit that is a dry pod. The leaves are divided into three parts with scalloped, toothed edges. The flower has 5 to 7 sepals and tiny club-like petals. There are numerous stamens and several pistils. You can find these plants in Algonquin Highlands’ moist, shady areas of its coniferous forests.