Lesser Celandine

Ranunculus ficaria

General - Lesser Celandine is a perennial weed and is one of the first weeds to appear before it quickly disappears again.

This weed is a member of the Buttercup family and is very difficult to control effectively. Lesser Celandine is a low growing weed which rarely exceeds 50mm in height

Leaves - The weeds have glossy heart shaped leaves, which on occasions have a slightly serrated edge.

Flowers - Lesser Celandine has yellow star shaped flowers. Each flower can have up to 12 petals and can be seen between March and May.

Roots - Lesser Celandine has a fibrous root system and numerous root tubers.

Habitat - Lesser Celandine prefers wet soil conditions. Excess shade may also encourage the weed.

Cultural Control - The weed may be removed by digging it out. However it should be noted that the whole weed should be removed, as any remaining roots and tubers may assist in helping the weed spread.

Encourage a healthy lawn with good lawn care practices, this will help reduce the opportunities for weeds to invade the lawn.

Chemical Control - Controlling Lesser Celandine is going to prove very difficult, and success may be limited, as it is resistant to most chemicals.

Another drawback is that the weed only appears between March and May, this only leaves a short time frame in which to control this weed.

Choose a selective weed killer that contains MCPA for the best results. Aim to treat Lesser Celandine early (when the leaves are fully developed), this should leave enough time for a second application before the weed disappears again in May.