The fingerprint features of infrared spectra for Coptis chinensis in different shading conditions (shelf, firry wood, corn wood) and with different ages (one year to five years) were studied. According to the ratio of characteristic peaks, the rules of the influence of shadings and ages on Coptis chinensis growth were illustrated, which confirms the feasibility of ecological planting technique for Coptis chinensis. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to analyze the influence of growing conditions on the growth of Coptis chinensis. The shadings and ages have no obvious influence on the quality of Coptis chinensis root, which is consistent with the results of HPLC. The quality of Coptis chinensis with ecological planting is identical with those in shelves. Infrared technique provides a meaningful guide to standardized planting of medicinal plants.