Lesser Celandine
Ficaria vernaRanunculaceae — Buttercup family
Invasive non-native
![Lesser Celandine](/images/ranunculus_ficaria.jpg)
When I first saw this plant, in 1998, it was relatively uncommon. I had trouble finding a name for it; it wasn't listed in my field guides.
Prices CornerApril 2001
![Lesser Celandine](/images/120406_143035.jpg)
Now it is among the worst of the invasive plants in Delaware.
White Clay Creek State Park -- Pump House RoadApril 2012
![Lesser Celandine](/images/040417_094931.jpg)
This plant covers acres along streams in Delaware, including the Brandywine Creek floodplain. Note the Virginia bluebells in the foreground. It's ideal habitat for both plants, but the bluebells can't compete.
Brandywine Creek State ParkApril 2004
![Lesser Celandine](/images/ficaria_verna_4.jpg)
The leaves emerge in late winter and form a dense mat.
![Lesser Celandine](/images/ficaria_verna_6.jpg)
A single plant.
![Lesser Celandine](/images/ficaria_verna_7.jpg)
The plant spreads by growing new plants from tubers...
Middle Run Valley Natural AreaMarch 2016
![Lesser Celandine](/images/ficaria_verna_8.jpg)
...and from bulblets that grow in the leaf axils.
![Lesser Celandine](/images/ficaria_verna_9.jpg)
The leaves die in late spring, leaving the bulblets free to be washed downstream or spread in mud on shoes and bike tires.
White Clay Creek State Park -- Creek RoadMay 2016
Search Google • Delaware • USDA
Photos copyright David G. Smith
Information from the Delaware Flora Checklist used with author's permission.