Etymology: Chelidonium: Greek chelidon for "swallow". Ancient folklore tells that this plant tends to flower when the swallows return to nest in the spring until fall when they leave.
Plants: erect, biennial/perennial, 12"-32" tall forb, yellowish sap; stems branched, leafy, ribbed
Leaves: several, alternate, deeply lobed and pinnately-divided
Flowers: yellow, 4-parted, 3/4" wide; inflorescence a small, umbel-like cluster; blooms May-Aug.
Habitat: moderate moisture
Hazardous: Careful, this plant is hazardous!
Invasiveness: Prohibited/Restricted Invasive - Eradicate!
Conservation Status: Introduced - naturalized; ecologically invasive
Flora of North America: Flora of North America WIS DNR-Bureau of Endangered Resources: Detailed information on Wisconsin invasive species including decription, habitats, control methods USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos David G. Smith's "Delaware Wilflowers": Beautiful photographs; descriptions Purple Sage - Ethnobotanical Information: Detailed usage, preparation, and other helpful information Southwest School of Botanical Medicine: Britton & Brown Illustrated Flora - 2nd Edition (1913) "An Illustrated Flora of the Northern United States and Canada"