Horticulture/Chelidonium majus

Chelidonium majus__NOTOC__Greater Celandine Koeh-033.jpg Chelidonium majus Papaveraceae Herbaceous perennial Weedy, invasive in parts of North America Insects Toxic to humans and livestock The greater celandine (Chelidonium majus) is a yellow-flowering poppy, native to Europe and the Mediterranean basin. It is also widespread in North America, having been brought there by settlers as a herbal remedy for skin problems such as warts as early as 1672. The whole plant is toxic, containing a range of alkaloids, such as Chelerythrine; it may also cause contact dermatitis, particularly the latex. The greater celandine is the only species in the genus Chelidonium, and is not closely related to the lesser celandine (../Ranunculus ficaria/). Description Greater celandine plants may reach 80 cm high, with deeply divided, 30-cm long leaves. The flowers comprise four yellow petals, each about 1 cm long, and are produced from May to July. The seeds are small and black, and possess an elaiosome, which attracts ants to disperse the seeds (myrmecochory). A double-flowered variety, a naturally occurring mutation, also exists. Growing Conditions Varieties Uses The plant was formerly used by gypsies as a foot refresher; modern herbalists use its purgative properties. The plant is toxic and should not be used without supervision.Howard, Michael. Traditional Folk Remedies (Century, 1987) p.146-7 Maintenance Propagation Harvest Pests and Diseases References Blanchan, Neltje Wild Flowers Worth Knowing 2005 Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation 7.12.13 thumb|left|240px