Greater celandine - Chelidonium majus (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Greater celandine

Also known as: Chelidonium, Devil’s milk

Greater celandine (Chelidonium majus) is a plant species with distinctive golden-yellow flowers. It has been cultivated since the era of Pliny the Elder, in the first century. The greater celandine is actually a part of the poppy family, and like other species in that genetic family, it is well known for its recognizable, bright blooms. The yellow latex inside is equally recognizable, but is highly toxic if consumed.

Scientific classification

Species

Greater celandine (Chelidonium majus)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

1.5 cm to 2.5 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Greater celandine

Distribution of Greater celandine

Distribution Map

Greater celandine is native to Europe, the Mediterranean, Russia. It is also found naturalized in much of North and South America, England, and Ireland. In North America, it is considered aggressive or invasive. It grows in sheltered places like riverbanks, hedgerows, and loose, mesic woodlands.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Rubble, damp ground, banks, hedgerows, by walls, nearly close to human habitations

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Joys to come.

Interesting Facts

Greater celandine root is used to make herbal tinctures and preparations used in herbalism, a spiritual and folk medicine practice. It has been used in herbalism since 1597, when it was first documented for use in sight enhancement. The Iroquois indigenous people gave infusions of greater celandine to pigs that were observed to drool or make sharp motions.

Name Story

Greater celandine: According to the Oxford English Dictionary, celandine comes from Late Latin celidonia, from Early Latin chelidonia or chelidonium meaning "swallow". Ancient writers said that the flowers bloomed when the swallows returned and wilted when they left. Since it is bigger than Ficaria verna also known as lesser celandine, it is called Greater celandine.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Toxicity

Internal use of greater celandine may be toxic to the liver, causing nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and fever, with links to acute hepatitis. Greater celandine is toxic to cats and dogs, potentially causing poisoning when any part is ingested. Immediate veterinary care is crucial for pets showing symptoms of poisoning after ingestion.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Greater celandine

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.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Greater celandine

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from European and Asian woodlands, greater celandine prefers moist environments and requires weekly watering for optimal growth. This resilient herbaceous perennial flourishes with adequate rainfall or supplemental irrigation throughout its active growing season, demonstrating a strong connection between its growth cycle and water availability.

Fertilize: For greater celandine, apply balanced fertilizers monthly during the growing season to promote health and flowering, but avoid over-fertilizing. Adjust the routine based on seasonal growth, focusing on spring and summer, and cease in winter, ensuring nutrient levels are suitable for greater celandine's growth stage.

Pruning: Greater celandine is a herbaceous perennial with bright yellow flowers and latex sap. Prune in spring to promote growth, remove dead stems, and thin dense clusters for better air circulation. Regular pruning encourages vigorous growth and can extend blooming periods.

Propagation: Greater celandine propagates best by sowing in Spring, with moderate difficulty. Successful propagation is evidenced by sprouting seedlings. For enhanced germination, pre-soak seeds before planting.

Repotting: Greater celandine should be repotted every 2-3 years, preferably in spring. Select a pot slightly larger for root growth. After repotting, provide ample light and moderate watering without over-saturating the soil to maintain its vibrant foliage and yellow flowers.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free