Coptis trifolia (Gold Thread)

This plant has a small, creeping, perennial root, of a bright yellow color; the stems are round, slender, and at the base are invested with ovate, acuminate, yellowish scales.  The leaves are evergreen, on long, slender petioles; leaflets roundish, acute at base, small and smooth, and veiny and sessile.  The flower is a small starry white one, and the fruit an oblong capsule, containing many small black seeds.