

How to identify Greater celandine (Chelidonium majus)
Greater celandine, also known as Chelidonium, Devil’s milk
Greater celandine is distinguished by its vibrant yellow flowers that grace gardens and disturbed areas commonly in early summer. The flowers tend to bloom between May and June, capturing the essence of the warmer months with their bright color. This herbaceous perennial favors damp, but not saturated, soil conditions and thrives in rich loams, showcasing its adaptability to various soil types. Ideally, it prospers in shaded locations, yet can withstand full sun exposure in cooler environments. Its ability to naturalize in mountainous regions indicates a robust nature. Typically, greater celandine flourishes at a modest size that suits flower gardens.
Yellow 1/2 to 3/4 inch (1.3 to 1.9 cm) flowers blooming May-June.
Distinctive cylindrical 2 inch (5 cm) green-brown fruit capsules that split open.
Prominent pinnately-divided leaves with lobed leaflets and noticeable veins.
Brittle stem exuding yellow-orange sap, waxy texture with sparse hairs.
Adaptable herbaceous perennial thriving in shaded areas with vivid yellow flowers.
Greater celandine leaves measure 5-10 inches (12.7-25.4 cm) in length and are pinnately divided. The leaflets are distinctly lobed, giving them a deeply incised appearance. The veins on the leaves are prominent and lighter in color, creating a stark contrast against the darker green leaf surface. This vein pattern makes the leaves of greater celandine easily identifiable. The texture of the leaves is somewhat delicate and soft to the touch. These characteristic features aid in the identification of greater celandine.
The flowers of greater celandine are yellow and measure 1/2 to 3/4 inch (1.3 to 1.9 cm) across. Each flower is 4-parted, with four distinct petals arranged in a radial pattern, contributing to its symmetrical appearance. Blooming occurs from May through June. The brilliant yellow petals are likely to be the most noticeable feature, serving as a key characteristic for identification. Scent details are not commonly noted, but the visual appeal is significant for recognition purposes.
The stem of greater celandine is brittle and exudes a distinctive yellow-orange sap when broken. It has a waxy surface adorned with sparse hairs, giving it a slightly rough texture. The stem is typically green, varying in thickness from 0.2 to 0.4 inches (5 to 10 mm). Branching occurs irregularly along the stem, contributing to the plant's bushy appearance. These characteristics are pivotal for identifying this plant among similar species.
The fruit of greater celandine is a slender, elongated capsule that reaches approximately 2 inches (5 cm) in length. As a key identification feature, the capsule exhibits a distinct cylindrical form. Upon reaching maturity, it typically presents a green to brownish hue. The surface of the capsule is smooth to the touch. Unique to its structure, this capsule splits open from the top to release numerous tiny, minute seeds, an attribute known as dehiscence, which is common among members of its family.
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Scientific Classification of Greater celandine