celandine

Celandine is a common name that may refer to two plants in the Ranunculaceae family: greater celandine (Chelidonium majus) and lesser celandine (Ficaria verna, formerly Ranunculus ficaria). The two species are not closely related beyond sharing a yellow-flowered habit, and they occupy different habitats.

Greater celandine is a herbaceous perennial native to Europe and western Asia and widely naturalized elsewhere. It grows in disturbed ground, hedgerows, and waste areas. The plant has branched stems, deeply divided leaves, and bright yellow flowers with four petals. A characteristic orange-yellow latex is produced when the plant is damaged. All parts contain alkaloids and can be toxic if ingested; contact with the sap can irritate skin in some people. Chelidonium majus contains alkaloids such as chelidonine and sanguinarine, and has a long history of traditional use for liver and digestive ailments, though modern medical guidance does not support safe or effective medical use.

Lesser celandine is native to Europe and western Asia as well, but typically occupies damp habitats such as woodlands and along streams. It is a creeping perennial that forms dense mats of glossy, heart-shaped leaves and small, yellow flowers in spring. It has become invasive in many parts of North America, where it can displace native vegetation and alter local plant communities.

Ecology and management notes emphasize careful identification and containment, as both species can spread vegetatively. Removal should be done with gloves to avoid skin irritation, and disposal must prevent return through rhizomes or latex exposure.