Lesser celandine (Ficaria ambigua)
Care, watering, light and tips for Lesser celandine on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Ranunculaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Lesser celandine
Ficaria ambigua, also known as Fertile Fig Buttercup or Ambiguous Fig Buttercup, is a small perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. It is characterized by its glossy, heart-shaped leaves and bright yellow flowers that emerge in early spring, often before trees develop their foliage. It is ideal for ground cover in shady, moist areas of woodland gardens or beneath shrubs, where it can form a dense and attractive carpet.
Native range
Mediterranean region of Europe and North Africa
Care tips
It prefers partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Watering should be regular during its active growth period in spring, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. A common mistake is planting it in dry soils or full sun, which can stress the plant and reduce its flowering. This species can become invasive under ideal conditions, so monitoring its spread is recommended.
How to save a dying Lesser celandine
- Warning signs
- Wilting, yellowing or spotted leaves, no flowering.
- First aid
- Replant in moist, well-drained soil, partial shade. Water if soil is dry.
- What kills it
- Prolonged drought, intense direct sun, constant waterlogging.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's quite resilient if conditions are corrected.