Overview

Chelidonium majus 'Flore Pleno' is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Chelidonium, part of the Papaveraceae family. It typically grows around 0.5 m tall. Chelidonium majus 'Flore Pleno' grows best in full sun and full shade, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Europe and Western Asia.

About

Chelidonium majus 'Flore Pleno' is a double-flowered form of Chelidonium in the poppy family Papaveraceae. It produces yellow blooms in the UK from April to July. The foliage is blue-green and pinnate, and the plant behaves as a perennial herbaceous species.

About the genus

Chelidonium, commonly known as celandines, is a small genus of flowering plants in the poppy family, This genus is native to northern Africa and Eurasia, where they are widespread, ranging from western Europe to east Asia.

Wikipedia contributors, "Chelidonium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Chelidonium

In the garden

Chelidonium majus 'Flore Pleno' belongs to the poppy family Papaveraceae and represents a double‑flowered form within the genus Chelidonium. It is a perennial herbaceous plant originating from temperate parts of Europe and western Asia and is cultivated where a long spring–early summer flowering period is wanted. Plants carry clear yellow flowers from April to July in the UK, set against blue‑green pinnate leaves; the floral display is concentrated in late spring and early summer. Reproduction in the species involves small, black seeds contained in a long, cylindrical capsule, each seed bearing an elaiosome that attracts ants and encourages dispersal (myrmecochory), which can aid local naturalisation. Uses in the garden are typically informal: 'Flore Pleno' fits with mixed herbaceous borders and naturalistic plantings where its spring–summer flowers can sit alongside other perennials. Expect the double form to emphasise petalled blooms in season, while the seed capsules and ant‑assisted dispersal contribute to its behaviour in a planting over time. The small black seeds borne in the elongated capsules have elaiosomes that ants collect, helping seedlings appear a short distance from the parent clump.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Chelidonium

Sunlight

Full sun, Full shade

Soil type

Sandy, Loamy, Clay

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained

UK hardiness

H7

Plant details

Chelidonium majus 'Flore Pleno' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Herbaceous perennial

Height

0.5 m

Native to

Europe, Western Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Frequently asked questions