Species

2 other cultivars

perennial

Lesser Celandine 'Randall's White'

The Story

Plant Bio

Ranunculus ficaria, commonly known as lesser celandine, is a low-growing perennial with glossy, heart-shaped leaves and bright yellow, buttercup-like flowers that bloom in early spring.

The 'Randall's White' cultivar is distinguished by its pure white flowers, offering a striking contrast to the typical yellow blooms of the species, and it has a compact, vigorous growth habit.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright yellow flowers add cheerful color early in spring, enhancing shade gardens and borders.

Provides ground cover in shaded areas, suppressing weeds and soil erosion.

Supports early pollinators emerging in spring, contributing to local biodiversity.

SpeciesRanunculus ficariaLesser Celandine

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

6 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moist environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early fall for natural stratification.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Plant bulbs in well-drained soil in early spring for best results.
Water consistently during active growth period, about once a week.
Divide crowded clumps in late summer or early fall to propagate.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in moist, well-drained soil with partial shade for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds
Divide in early fall to rejuvenate plants
Monitor for pests and treat organically if needed

Don't

Avoid letting soil dry out completely ❌
Do not expose to full, harsh sun which can scorch leaves
Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent weak stems

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Early spring borderShade garden accent

Companion Plants

HostaFern Bleeding Heart

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Lesser Celandine 'Randall's White' questions

What zones can Lesser Celandine 'Randall's White' grow in?

Lesser Celandine 'Randall's White' is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Lesser Celandine 'Randall's White' deer resistant?

Yes — Lesser Celandine 'Randall's White' is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Lesser Celandine 'Randall's White' bloom?

Lesser Celandine 'Randall's White' typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Lesser Celandine 'Randall's White' need full sun?

Lesser Celandine 'Randall's White' does best in part shade.