lesser celandine (Ficaria verna) observed in Pinewick Rd, Ellicott City, MD, US
iNaturalist: figz
Invasive Species
iNaturalistLesser celandine can carpet your yard, garden beds, and nearby stream corridors every spring before you even know it's there — and once it's established, it's nearly impossible to remove without repeated herbicide treatments or years of hand-pulling.
Lesser celandine is a small, cheerful-looking plant with shiny yellow flowers that blooms in early spring, often before most other plants wake up. It originally came from Europe and has spread widely across the eastern United States, where it aggressively takes over forest floors, stream banks, and lawns. This confirmed sighting in Ellicott City, MD helps scientists and land managers track exactly where it's spreading.
Key Findings
A research-grade observation (highest iNaturalist confidence level) of lesser celandine was recorded at Pinewick Rd, Ellicott City, MD
Lesser celandine is listed as invasive in Maryland and multiple neighboring states, with populations documented across Howard County
The plant typically emerges in February–April, giving it a competitive head start over native spring wildflowers before they can establish
chevron_right Technical Summary
A research-grade sighting of lesser celandine, an invasive spring wildflower from Europe, has been confirmed in Ellicott City, Maryland. This observation adds to the growing record of this plant's spread through Mid-Atlantic riparian and suburban areas.
Abstract Preview
Research-grade observation of lesser celandine in Pinewick Rd, Ellicott City, MD, US.
open_in_new Read full abstract on iNaturalistAbstract copyright held by the original publisher.
Species Mentioned
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Ficaria verna, commonly known as lesser celandine or pilewort, is a low-growing, hairless perennial flowering plant in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. It has fleshy dark green, heart-shaped leaves and distinctive flowers with bright yellow, glossy petals. Native to Europe and Western Asia, it...