Goldthread.Coptis trifolia.
Found during May in moist woods.
The root sends up flowers and leaves on stems from 3 to 5 inches high.
The leaf is compound with 3 small leaflets that are wedge-shaped, with notched margins, tough texture, and smooth, shining surface; it is set on a long slender stem. Evergreen, and of a dark green color.
The flower is small; of 5 or 7 narrow, tapering calyx-parts that are a fine silvery-white color. The true petals are inconspicuous and easily confused with the numerous stamens and pistils. The flower-stem is long and slender.
This has a shining flower and leaf. The bright yellow thread-like roots give it its common name.