MICHIGAN LESSER
CELANDINE COALITION
What is Lesser Celandine?
Lesser Celandine (Ficaria verna) is a perennial ground-covering plant native to northern Europe, newly found to be invasive in the Great Lakes region. Lesser Celandine forms a dense mat in the early spring, outcompeting native ephemeral species, many of which are already threatened. It can be identified by its small (1-4 cm), lobed leaves growing in clusters with 7-12 petaled, glossy, yellow inflorescences (2-5 cm). After blooming, it forms clusters of small bulblets and tubers which spread and easily propagate if disturbed.
Why should I care?
Lesser Celandine was first documented in Michigan in Clinton County in 2014. Since then, it has established in the headwaters of the Grand River and is rapidly traveling downstream to Lake Michigan. Blooming in early spring, Lesser Celandine chokes out native spring ephemeral species and destabilizes river shorelines. If we do nothing, the Grand River as we know it could be changed forever.
How can I help?
Reporting is the most beneficial to our work. The Michigan Lesser Celandine Coalition is a collaborative of multiple conservation districts, CISMA’s, parks departments, and more that are coordinating surveys and targeted strikes along the Grand River. If you see it, report it on the Michigan Invasive Species Invasive Network (MISIN). This helps us know which areas are affected and how best to allocate resources.
Want to learn more?
Educate yourself with some of our resources and always feel free to reach out to learn more!
