Coptis brachypetala

Family: Ranunculaceae

What it is like

Coptis brachypetala is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.2 m (0ft 9in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0.2

Where it is found

Woods in mountains, C. and N. Japan.

E. Asia - Japan.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating: 3

A yellow dye is obtained from the roots. Can be grown as a ground cover plant in the peat garden.

Dye: Plants that provide dyes.

Ground cover: Ground Cover

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in a light moist humus-rich slightly acidic soil with a northerly aspect or light shade.

Propagating it: Seed - best sown in a greenhouse as soon as it is ripe in an ericaceous compost. Seal the pot in a polythene bag until germination takes place, which is usually within 1 - 6 months at 10°c. Stored seed should be sown as early in the year as possible. Four weeks cold stratification may be beneficial. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow on in a shady part of the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out in mid-autumn or in spring. Division in spring.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Ground Cover;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium

Shade: Semi-shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Although no specific mention of toxicity has been found for this species, it belongs to a family that contains many species that are mildly toxic and so it is wise to treat this plant with some caution.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

C. japonica major. (Miq.)Satake.