Ficaria verna ‘Brazen Hussy’

Lesser Celandine Ranunculaceae

A striking selection of lesser celandine, forming a low carpet of glossy, heart-shaped leaves in an extraordinary deep blackish-bronze, from which the brilliant golden-yellow flowers emerge in early spring. The flowers, around 3cm across, appear from February to April, before the plant retreats underground for summer dormancy. It is particularly effective beneath deciduous trees, where the dark foliage contrasts beautifully with the fresh greens of spring.

Introduction: ‘Brazen Hussy’ was discovered by the celebrated plantsman Christopher Lloyd in the coppice below Great Dixter, East Sussex, and was subsequently named and introduced to horticulture by him. Lloyd selected it for its exceptionally dark foliage, which he considered one of the most distinctive forms of the species. It has since become one of the best-known ornamental selections of Ficaria verna. 

Grow in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil in partial or full shade, although some spring sunshine helps bring out the contrast between the dark foliage and yellow flowers. The tuberous roots allow it to persist through summer dormancy, while basal bulbils provide an effective means of vegetative spread. It can gradually form substantial colonies and is best given room to naturalise. 

Flowering: February–April
Hardiness: H7, below –20°C
Height: 10cm
Spread: 30–80cm