Ficaria verna
lesser celandine
A low-growing, tuberous perennial with rich green, glossy leaves sometimes marked with silver or bronze. Bright golden-yellow, cup-shaped flowers appear in spring, fading to white with age, and providing a good early nectar source
Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cmTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Gold Yellow | Green Bronze Grey | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Bronze Grey | |||
| Autumn | Green Bronze Grey | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full shade
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or East–facing or South–facing or °Â±ð²õ³Ù–f²¹³¦¾±²Ô²µ
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Matforming
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten, skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Ficaria is a relatively small genus of European herbs. It is closely related to buttercups (Ranunculus) and is sometimes included within that genus
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, NW Africa, SW Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Occurs naturally in open woods, hedges and damp meadows. A good early source of pollen and nectar for insects, though plants can spread and have potential to become a nuisance if not controlled. See lesser celandine for more information
Propagation
Propagate by seeds and tubers
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews on drier soils
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