Ficver
Ficaria verna
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
shade
Water
medium
Size
3"–12" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
MI
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Ficaria verna, commonly known as lesser celandine, is a low-growing spring wildflower that produces bright yellow buttercup-like flowers from March through May. This shade-tolerant perennial goes dormant by early summer, disappearing completely until the following spring.
In an HOA neighborhood
Ficver takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Invasive species that spreads aggressively
- Leaves completely bare ground after going dormant in summer
- May be prohibited by local ordinances
Wildlife value
The early spring blooms provide nectar for bees and flies when few other flowers are available. However, this is a non-native species that can become invasive and crowd out native spring wildflowers.
Common questions
- How much sun does Ficver need?
- Ficver grows best in shade conditions.
- When does Ficver bloom?
- Ficver blooms in March, April, and May.
- Where is Ficver native?
- Ficver (Ficaria verna) is native to MI, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Ficver attract?
- Ficver draws bees and flies.
- Is Ficver HOA-friendly?
- Ficver takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Ficver? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz