04/21/2021
Look familiar? This beautiful plant, called "Lesser Celandine", is actually an invasive species TOXIC TO HUMANS AND OTHER MAMMALS. It is endangering important native plants that support our pollinators and wildlife by outcompeting them and taking over their habitat. It is difficult to eradicate, but if you see it in an area that you take care of or on your property, every little bit you can eliminate helps our native flora! Hand-pulling is effective for small patches, but be sure to get every little bit of bulblet under the ground, or it will come back with a vengeance next year. Unfortunately, these bulblets can be as deep as 8"! Vigilance and perseverance are key.
Please read this excerpt from the website "The Sanguine Root" if you'd like to know more about how vital it is to protect our native plant species from invasives like Lesser Celandine:
"Starting in an area that has lots of native plants, but has patches of Lesser Celandine coming in is the best option. Start on the edges and work your way in. Try to prioritize the areas threatened and push back the threat. The surviving plants of your area of scope are the most important resource to be protected- these plants and their genetic heritage are the most valued asset because they are the most suited to this specific area, and they are supporting the remaining wildlife as well, there are migrating birds depending on these plants, the insects they eat, as well as the birds and mammals that want to actually live in this place."
If we all do our part, we can reclaim some of our natural areas for the native species that we all rely on!
If you have any questions about protecting our native species, or anything else in your landscape, please call us at Miko Lawn & Landscape at 717/464-4110 or comment below, and we'll be happy to assist you!
