Greater Celandine (Chelidonium majus), belonging to the Papaveraceae family, is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its bright yellow flowers and distinctive orange latex. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, this plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine and has naturalized in many other regions, including North America. It is commonly found along hedgerows, roadsides, and other disturbed areas.
Greater Celandine (Chelidonium majus) has been revered since antiquity for its healing properties. Its name, derived from the Greek word chelidon—meaning “swallow”—reflects the ancient belief that the plant bloomed with the return of swallows in spring. Used widely in traditional European herbalism, Greater Celandine was prized for treating liver ailments, skin conditions, and digestive discomfort. The vivid orange sap, or latex, extracted from its stems, was historically applied to warts and other skin growths, further establishing its reputation as a powerful—though potent—medicinal herb.
Greater Celandine is an herbaceous perennial, typically growing between 30 and 80 centimeters in height. Its branching stems are delicate and contain a signature orange latex, which appears when cut or broken. The leaves are deeply lobed, light green, and resemble those of poppies, adding fine texture to the plant’s form. Clusters of small, bright yellow flowers, each with four distinct petals, appear from late spring through early autumn, lending color and charm to shaded gardens. These are followed by slender seed pods that burst open to release glossy black seeds.
The plant’s most recognizable trait is its orange sap, rich in alkaloids responsible for both its medicinal potency and its toxicity. While it thrives in low-light environments, its vibrant blossoms stand out vividly, making it a prized ornamental in naturalized, woodland-style plantings.
Greater Celandine is best sown directly outdoors in early spring or autumn, as its seeds benefit from natural cold stratification. Surface-sow the seeds without covering them deeply, as they require light for germination. Once seedlings emerge, thin them to 20–30 centimeters apart to allow room for mature growth.
This plant prefers humus-rich, moist, and well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. While adaptable to various soil types, it performs best in fertile ground. Partial to full shade is ideal, although it tolerates more sunlight in cooler climates. Water regularly during the growing season to maintain evenly moist soil, especially in dry periods.
Greater Celandine is low-maintenance. A top dressing of compost in early spring provides ample nutrition, and deadheading spent blooms can prevent unwanted self-seeding. Cut the plant back in late autumn to neaten its appearance before winter. It is generally resistant to pests and diseases, though young shoots may occasionally attract slugs or snails. When harvesting, always wear gloves to avoid staining or irritation from the sap.
Long esteemed in traditional herbal medicine, Greater Celandine has been used to treat a variety of ailments. The orange latex has a long-standing reputation as a topical treatment for warts, corns, and other skin afflictions. Internally, infusions or tinctures made from the plant were traditionally used to support liver and gallbladder function and to relieve gastrointestinal complaints such as cramping, bloating, and sluggish digestion.
Phytochemical studies have confirmed the presence of alkaloids with antimicrobial, antispasmodic, and antifungal properties. However, due to the plant’s potential toxicity, internal use must be approached with caution and under the supervision of qualified practitioners.
In addition to its medicinal and ornamental value, Greater Celandine supports local ecosystems by attracting pollinators such as bees and hoverflies. Its ability to thrive in shaded, neglected corners of the garden makes it an excellent naturalizing plant, bringing color and texture to areas where few others flourish.
