The invasive Fig Buttercup (Ficaria verna)

Fig Buttercup (Ficaria verna, formerly Ranunculus ficaria) is an early-blooming perennial with origins in Europe and northern Africa. It is also called Lesser Celandine, and it is sometimes confused with Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris). It has apparently been enjoyed in gardens for many years, mostly in the Northeast. More recently, its behavior has transitioned or is in the process of transitioning to that of an aggressive invasive species that threatens bottomlands throughout its adopted range.

Be a Citizen Scientist — The SC Native Plant Society is asking you to scout areas near you where it is likely to be found, so that emerging infestations can be documented, monitored, and with landowners’ cooperation, treated. This location data will also be used to help persuade others of the seriousness of the threat to the South’s riparian zones.

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