Invasive Species: Lesser Celandine

Ficaria verna

Lesser celandine is an escaped ornamental that can expand rapidly and is especially difficult to control.

Why is it important to control?

This plant forms dense patches excluding many low-growing forbs, especially the early-blooming native wildflowers.

Image of lesser celandine flowering among leaf litter

How can you identify it?

Close up image of lesser celandine leavesClose up of lesser celandine flower
Habitat: Urban gardens, forest understories, and riparian areas.
Life Cycle: Perennial
Height: Up to 1 foot
Leaf Description: Rosette with dark green, heart shaped leaves that emerge in January to February.
Fruit & Flower Description: Bright yellow, buttercup-like flower with 8 petals.
Bloom Time: March to May

How do you control it?

  • Hand-pulling only works for small infestations.

  • All plant parts and nearby soil should be put in a tied bag and place in the garbage.

  • Oregon State University has control methods. FOLLOW ALL LABEL DIRECTIONS!

  • The Oregon Department of Agriculture has no approved biocontrols.

How to report it?

There are various ways you can report this noxious weed.

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