Ficaria verna

Flowers (2425723494) cropped

Ranunculus ficaria Sturm59

Ficaria verna bud

20150315Ficaria verna3

Error creating thumbnail:

Ranunculus ficaria Roots

Lesser-Celandine Bulbils Close-Up1

Ficaria verna, commonly known as lesser celandine, is a low-growing, perennial flowering plant in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced to other regions, including North America, where it is often considered an invasive species.

Description

Ficaria verna typically grows to a height of 5–30 cm. The plant has dark green, heart-shaped leaves and bright yellow, glossy flowers that bloom in early spring. The flowers have 8-12 petals and are about 2-3 cm in diameter. The plant reproduces both by seed and vegetatively through tubers and bulbils.

Habitat

Ficaria verna thrives in moist, shaded environments such as woodlands, meadows, and along riverbanks. It prefers rich soil and can often be found in gardens and lawns where it can spread rapidly.

Invasive Species

In regions where Ficaria verna is not native, it can become invasive, outcompeting native flora and disrupting local ecosystems. Its ability to reproduce vegetatively makes it particularly difficult to control once established.

Uses

Historically, Ficaria verna has been used in herbal medicine to treat various ailments, although its use is less common today. The plant contains protoanemonin, which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.

Related Pages

• Ranunculaceae
• Invasive species
• Herbal medicine
• Perennial plant