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Noxious weed spotted in downtown Cedar Mill!

Tualatin Soil and Water Conservation District warns us to watch for Lesser Celandine, a perennial buttercup commonly found in flower gardens or surrounding landscapes. Although it is a beautiful early spring bloomer, Lesser Celandine can quickly take over a garden. In the wild, the plant can completely overtake the forest floor, outcompeting native wildflowers.

Identifying Lesser Celandine:

• Bright yellow flowers bloom March-April  
• Plant forms dense green clumps, 5-6" tall  
• Flowers extend above kidney shaped leaves (the less invasive buttercups have lobed leaves)

This patch of Lesser Celandine is right at the corner of Saltzman & Dogwood, and next to a water quality swale. We’ve notified the church, which owns the property. If you see this in your yard, please follow the instructions to remove it and report it on the Hotline!

The primary reproductive method is the formation of turions (detachable bulbs) that are produced on the roots in large numbers. They are easily moved in contaminated dirt or by water. It prefers shaded to partially shaded sites, though it can thrive in full sun with adequate soil moisture.

What to do if you find Lesser Celandine: Dig up small patches and be sure to remove ALL the tubers. DO NOT put the plant in your compost—dispose of it in your garbage.

Report patches to the Oregon Invasive Hotline when found in wild or natural areas.

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