Lesser Celandine
ficaria verna
Also known as: ["Ranunculus ficaria","Pilewort"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herbaceous plant with glossy, heart-shaped leaves and bright yellow flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["disease resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Ficaria |
| Botanical Name: | Ficaria verna |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden, shaded border, or container in a cool, moist spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed during active growth; typically light pruning in spring or early summer.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; focus on removing damaged or spent foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light conditions but prefers dappled sunlight for optimal growth.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from deep shade; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn; ideal for shaded garden beds or under trees.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide dappled light; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging to prevent rot; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); thrives in cooler climates and may go dormant in hot summers.
Protect from extreme heat; mulch in winter; adjust watering for temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive foliage growth; stop feeding during dormancy; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or stem cuttings in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes with a sharp knife.
- Plant cuttings in moist medium.
- Keep in a warm, shaded location.
- Monitor for root development.
Best Time: Early spring, just as new growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with added perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division; optional for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Rhizome division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 2–4 weeks, mature plant in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, rooting medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Divide rhizomes when overcrowded; use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain humidity for cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead leaves at the base; trim back overgrown stems if necessary.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or yellowing foliage to maintain appearance and prevent disease.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Remove dead leaves; sanitize tools; avoid over-pruning; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently lift the plant; remove old soil; trim any dead roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only when overcrowded or every 2–3 years to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust for seasonal changes.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal issues; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth in spring, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in summer dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves in excessive heat; stunted growth in overly cold conditions; premature dormancy in unsuitable temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth or induce dormancy; prolonged cold may damage foliage but typically recovers in spring.
Solution: Provide mulch for insulation in winter; protect from harsh winds; ensure well-drained soil to prevent frost heave.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or premature dormancy; may struggle in prolonged high temperatures.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid summer feeding; water before and after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during active growth in spring; avoid fertilizing in summer dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they consume Ficaria verna. The plant's toxins can cause irritation but are not usually severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Ficaria verna can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of ranunculin. The plant is not typically life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFicaria verna contains ranunculin, which upon digestion breaks down into toxic compounds irritating the gastrointestinal tract and skin. The plant's effects are generally mild but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lesser Celandine toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Lesser Celandine attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its bright yellow flowers.
Q: Is Lesser Celandine considered a weed?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in some regions and is often classified as a weed.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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