Greater Celandine
chelidonium majus
Also known as: ["Tetterwort","Swallowwort"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to Europe and western Asia, known for its yellow sap and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Chelidonium |
| Botanical Name: | Chelidonium majus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during active growth; major pruning in early spring if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on the plant's condition and desired shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours per day. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates, but requires some direct sun for optimal growth.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade; for indoor plants, rotate regularly for even light exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid intense midday sun; provide dappled light in summer; increase light exposure slowly after winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and weather conditions.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but may become dormant in winter.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources; maintain consistent temperatures to prevent shock.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to promote compact growth; remove yellow or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts. Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter 2–3 inches wider.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in a shaded spot for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the morning; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone to avoid wetting the foliage. Apply water slowly and deeply until it begins to drain from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or cessation of growth in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration or drop. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures may damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location during cold spells; apply a layer of mulch to protect roots in-ground; avoid watering when soil is frozen.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering. High temperatures may also increase water demand, risking dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic alkaloids in Chelidonium majus. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects, necessitating prompt veterinary care.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Chelidonium majus can lead to toxicosis due to its alkaloid content. The compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological disturbances, which may require veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicChelidonium majus contains toxic alkaloids, primarily chelidonine and chelerythrine, which can cause significant physiological effects upon ingestion or dermal contact. These compounds interfere with neurotransmitter function and can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress and neurological symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten or touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Greater Celandine safe for human consumption?
A: No, it is highly toxic and should not be ingested.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Greater Celandine?
A: It has been used in traditional medicine for treating skin conditions and warts.
Q: Does Greater Celandine attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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