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Description
Ficaria Verna Subsp. Verna, commonly known as the lesser celandine, is a low-growing perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to Europe, but can also be found in North America, Asia, and Africa. The plant can reach a height of up to 10 cm and has heart-shaped, glossy green leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. It produces vibrant yellow flowers that bloom from March to May, and its tuberous roots make it a resilient plant that can withstand harsh conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Ficaria |
Appearance
Ficaria Verna Subsp. Verna has glossy green leaves that have a heart-shaped outline and are deeply lobed. The leaves are usually 2-4 cm in diameter and grow in a rosette pattern. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that have 8-12 petals and grow on individual stalks. The flowers bloom from March to May and are typically 2 cm in diameter. Ficaria Verna Subsp. Verna has tuberous roots that are brown and bulbous, and can grow up to 1 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Ficaria Verna Subsp. Verna is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep it healthy and thriving:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Ficaria Verna Subsp. Verna does not require fertilization, but you can add compost or organic matter to the soil before planting to provide nutrients.- Soil: The plant thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.- Sunlight: Ficaria Verna Subsp. Verna prefers partial shade to full sun, but can also tolerate shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ficaria Verna Subsp. Verna is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to slugs and snails, which can eat the leaves and flowers. To prevent these pests, you can use slug pellets or create a barrier around the plant with copper tape. The plant can also be affected by powdery mildew, which appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant has good air circulation and remove any infected leaves.
Habitat
Ficaria Verna Subsp. Verna is native to Europe, but can also be found in North America, Asia, and Africa. It grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and riverbanks. The plant prefers moist soil and partial shade, but can also tolerate full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ficaria Verna Subsp. Verna poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant contains toxins that can cause skin irritation and stomach upset if ingested.
Q: Can Ficaria Verna Subsp. Verna be grown indoors?
A: While the plant can be grown indoors, it prefers outdoor conditions and is not well-suited for indoor environments.
Q: How often should Ficaria Verna Subsp. Verna be watered?
A: The plant prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells.
Q: Can Ficaria Verna Subsp. Verna be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by dividing the tuberous roots in the fall or early spring.
Related Plants
– Ficaria calthifolia- Ficaria ranunculoides- Ficaria sepium- Ranunculus ficaria- Ranunculus repens
References
– “Ficaria Verna Subsp. Verna.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b428.- “Ficaria Verna.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 14 Feb. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ficaria_verna.
