Chelidonium majus aka Greater Celandine
Taxonomy
Chelidonium majus, also known as the greater celandine, is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant belonging to the poppy family Papaveraceae. It is native to Europe and western Asia but has been widely introduced in North America. This plant should not be confused with the lesser celandine (Ficaria verna), which is a member of the buttercup family Ranunculaceae.
The greater celandine is a sparsely hairy plant that can spread up to 90cm. It has broad-lobed pinnately-divided leaves and produces yellow flowers during the spring and summer seasons. This plant has the ability to self-seed and naturalize easily.
With its preference for moist soil, Chelidonium majus thrives best in shady locations. However, it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It can be found in flower gardens as a cultivated herbaceous perennial or as a weed in natural landscapes. Its pretty yellow flowers add a touch of beauty wherever it grows.
Common names
Greater Celandine, Celandine, Great Celandine, Nipplewort, SwallowwortHow to care for Greater Celandine
Difficulty
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Greater Celandine due to its easy-going nature.
Water
Greater Celandine should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Greater Celandine loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Toxicity
The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.
Growth-pattern
The Greater Celandine is a clump-forming species, with new growth originating from the soil surrounding the main plant.
Region of origin
Greater Celandine’s native range is Most of Europe, including Britain, east to N. Asia.
More info:
Wikipedia
