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Herbaceous Perennial

Ficaria verna
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

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

Other common names
pilewort
Synonyms
Ranunculus ficaria 'Verna'
Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
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 West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical 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

Propagation

Propagate by seeds, bulbils and tubers

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs, snails and aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews on drier soils

Get involved

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