Lesser celandine

Lesser celandine, Ficaria verna, is a perennial plant. It’s invasive in the Eastern United States and moving its way west. It’s now classified as a restricted noxious weed in Minnesota, where there are several small infestations.

This invasive species poses a significant threat to local ecosystems by outcompeting native spring ephemerals and saplings, leading to a decline in their populations. Additionally, lesser celandine accelerates erosion and impacts water quality.

Lesser celandine is a true spring ephemeral, meaning it emerges above ground, blooms, and dies back within a short amount of time. By early summer, the plant dies back and becomes dormant underground, where it continues to spread. This is why it's crucial to look for and report it while the plant is visible in the spring.

Help the University of Minnesota monitor the spread of lesser celandine by reporting sightings through EDDMapS. 

Early detection is key to controlling and reducing the spread of invasive species.

Watch this 2:11 minute video to learn how to report to EDDMapS. 

Lesser celandine grows low to the ground and often starts in small clusters. If left to spread, it quickly forms dense “carpets," taking over areas. It grows in moist, partially shaded areas, often near streams, but it can also thrive in various conditions. Lesser celandine spreads through above-ground bulbils and underground tubers. 

Look-alikes include marsh marigold, wood poppy, and greater celandine.

Watch this 3:20 minute video from the Wisconsin First Detector Network for an overview of lesser celandine identification.  Then, review the images below to see the difference between lesser celandine and our native marsh marigold.