Chelidonium majus, commonly known as greater celandine, is a short-lived perennial or biennial herbaceous plant in the poppy family native to Europe and western Asia. Seeds exhibit complex dormancy requiring specific warm-cold stratification cycles.
Before sowing
Warm stratification for 30-42 days (70°F room temperature) followed by cold stratification for 60-84 days (40°F)
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Germination is slow and erratic; some seeds may take up to 12 months to sprout. Can be sown in situ in early spring or late fall. Best sown indoors in late winter. Trays can be left outside over winter. Seeds require light for germination. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Plant is toxic - use gloves when handling.
Sources: Strictly Medicinal Seeds, Sheffield Seed Company, World of Flowering Plants, Etsy, Floral Encounters, PFAF Plant Database, Korean Journal of Plant Resources
