Lesser celandine
Ficaria verna · Ranunculaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around lesser celandine and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- February to April
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Western and central Europe
- Soil type
- Moist and rich in organic matter
Care
Light exposure
Lesser celandine prefers partial shade or light shade, particularly under deciduous trees. It tolerates sun in winter and spring, before tree leaves unfold. Avoid intense summer sun exposure.
Watering
Keep the soil moist during the growing season (autumn to spring), especially during flowering. Gradually reduce watering after flowering as the plant enters summer dormancy. Avoid waterlogging.
Soil and planting
Plant lesser celandine in fertile, well-drained soil that retains moisture. Enrich the substrate with potting soil or compost at planting time. It appreciates cool environments and slightly acidic to neutral conditions.
Fertilizing
A balanced fertilizer application in spring is usually sufficient. You can add well-decomposed compost in autumn to enrich the soil without excessive nitrogen.
Pruning and maintenance
No pruning is necessary. Let the foliage yellow naturally after flowering before removing it. You can remove dead leaves in late summer to prevent disease.
Diseases and pests
Lesser celandine is generally disease-resistant. Watch for powdery mildew in humid, warm conditions. Excessive standing moisture can promote tuber rot. Ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Did you know?
Lesser celandine is one of Europe's earliest spring wildflowers, celebrated since antiquity for its small bright yellow flowers that appear as early as February. Once called 'piles-wort' because its tubers resemble bunches, it was long used in traditional medicine, though internal use requires caution.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.