Coptis (Chinese goldthread)

Coptis chinensis

Low evergreen ground cover with finely divided foliage. Roots carry berberine — the same antimicrobial alkaloid as endangered goldenseal — and are a more sustainable cultivated source.

Hardiness ratings

Coptis (Chinese goldthread) hardiness across the four zone systems
SystemRatingTemperature rangeHow to read it
USDA hardiness zone Zone 5–8 −28.9 °C to −6.7 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
RHS hardiness rating H7 down to −20 °C Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance
Canadian plant hardiness zone Zone 5–8 −23 °C to −1 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
Australian (ANBG) zone Zone 1–4 −15 °C to 5 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone

Growing notes

  • A practical alternative to goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) for berberine — both contain the same active compound
  • Berberine has multiple drug interactions including diabetes medications and immunosuppressants
  • Always consult a qualified medical or herbal practitioner before using any plant medicinally

Categories

Related plants

Cross-check Coptis (Chinese goldthread) against your zones

Reference

Coptis (Chinese goldthread) on Wikipedia