Lesser celandine (Ficaria verna) also known as fig buttercup is an herbaceous invasive species present in Oakland County. It is still legally sold within the state, but we recommend avoiding this species as it can easily escape cultivation. It is commonly found along riverbanks, wetlands, and forested plains. The leaves are dark green and shaped like a kidney or heart. The yellow flowers bloom between March and April. Bulblets (small bulbs) form near the end of flowering season. This species often grows as a continuous ground coverage like a carpet.
Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) is native to Michigan and looks very similar to lesser celandine. Marsh marigold does not have bulblets and does not form a continuous ground cover but do have yellow flowers and dark green leaves.
Have you seen this species? Report it to us or on the MISIN website or smartphone app. Please include a photo for ID verification.
Environmental effects
Lesser celandine emerges before native spring ephemerals and prevents them from establishing. This decreases biodiversity and can cause only weedy plants to grow the rest of the year.
Treatments
There are two recommended treatment options for lesser celandine depending on the infestation size.
NON-CHEMICAL CONTROL METHOD
Hand pulling: small infestations can be uprooted by hand. It is important to remove the root system and all bulblets. They should be placed in an area where they will not re-sprout, or in the garbage.
CHEMICAL CONTROL METHOD
Foliar spray: herbicide is sprayed onto the foliage of the plant. This is effective in large infestation areas. It is best to apply herbicide in later winter to early spring (March). Doing so will protect native spring ephemerals and sensitive skinned amphibians.