Deeproot Plant Base Online - Ranunculus ficaria

Plant Base Online (beta)

botanical name:
Ranunculus ficaria

common name: Lesser celandine, Pilewort
family: Ranunculaceae

characteristics: perennial
height: 0.05m width: 0.30m
growth rate: fast
growth habit:
leaf colour: dark green
flower colour: yellow
main period of interest: Spring

poisonous or irritant

growing conditions: full sun, part shade, shade, moist soil, clay soil, sandy soil
prefered soil pH: any
minimum temperature: -18°C
USDA zone: 7 to 8

description:
Very variable small tuberous perennial. Broadly heart-shaped, usually glossy dark green leaves which often have markings of paler green, silver or bronze. The leaves die back soon after the brilliant golden yellow flowers appear in early spring. A common wildflower, sometimes considered an invasive weed but rarely a serious nuisance as the top growth disappears by early summer. There are a number of selected forms in cultivation.

cultivation:
Not very fussy but prefers moist soil and a little shade. Thrives in woodlands, hedgerows and stream banks. Can form extensive patches.

propagation:
Spreads prolifically by tuberous roots and seed.

usage:
Early spring colour in the woodland and wild garden.

other notes:
A widespread native of Europe, North West Africa and South west Asia.