Ranunculus
( ran - NUN - kew - lus )
At-A-Glance InformationThis genus of perennial flowering plants needs regular water and have varying exposure needs. These are popular garden flowers, found in a variety of different colors and plant sizes. Plants are commonly called Buttercups, Spearworts, or Water Crowfoots. They are found worldwide, mostly in temperate and mountainous regions of the globe. Flowers are typically produced in spring and summertime. Take care when planting Ranunculus plants in the garden, as all fresh plant parts are poisonous to humans, pets, and livestock.
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Ranunculus Species and Varietals
The large genus Ranunculus is the type member of the plant family Ranunculaceae and includes 1,750 species. The genus name is derived from the late Latin word for 'little frog', referring to the habitat where most species are found (near bodies of water). The best growing zones for Ranunculus vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Ranunculus abortivus (Littleleaf Buttercup, Small-Flower Crowfoot, Small-Flowered Buttercup, Kidneyleaf Buttercup) This species is widespread across North America, and reaches between 4 and 24 inches tall when mature. Flowers are small and yellow, and foliage is green, forming a low-growing tuft. This is a plant used historically by native American populations. |
Ranunculus aconitifolius (Aconite-Leaf Buttercup, Bachelor's Buttons) These plants are native to central Europe, and reach up to 2 feet tall and 16 inches wide. These perennials produce loose panicles of white flowers in springtime and form basal clumps of foliage. They typically form colonies of plants in moist areas in mountains, meadows, and along ditches and streams. Cultivar 'Flore Pleno' has profuse white blooms. |
Ranunculus asiaticus (Persian Ranunculus, Persian Buttercup) This species of Ranunculus grows well in all zones, and is native to Asia Minor. Grows to 2 feet tall and wide with tuberous roots, and fernlike leaves. Flowers in spring bloom atop stems, and are about 3-5 inches across. Blooms can be double or semi-double and come in a variety of colors, including white, cream, yellow, orange, red and pink. They like well-draining, organically rich soil and full sun. Deadhead to encourage more blooms to pop. When flowering ceases, allow foliage to yellow and die back to the ground; withhold water. Plants can be left in the ground during dormancy or the tuberous roots can be dug up and stored in a cool, dark, dry place until the next spring. |
Ranunculus bullatus (Autumn Buttercup) These plants are native to Europe and North Africa, including most of the Mediterranean Islands. Blooms are present between the months of October and December in the plant's native range. Blooms are yellow and scented. Foliage is green, and forms a basal tuft. These plants prefer growing in rocky places, including olive groves and dry fields. |
Ranunculus californicus (California Buttercup) These plants are native to California, where they grow in chaparral and woodland landscapes. Plants reach up to 2.3 feet tall and produce bright yellow flowers atop green, leafless stems. This species is cultivated as an ornamental plant and is typically grown in native plant gardens. |
Ranunculus fascicularis (Early Buttercup) These flowers are native to eastern North America, and prefer to grow on sandy bluffs, prairies, and savannahs. These are perennial plants, with dissected green foliage and tuberous roots. Flowers are yellow, and bloom a little earlier in the season than other species in the genus. |
Ranunculus glacialis (Glacier Buttercup, Glacier Crowfoot) This species is native to mountainous areas in Europe, and is considered endangered in certain places in its range. Individual plants reach between 2 and 8 inches tall when in bloom, and produce fleshy, deeply lobed foliage. Flowers are white, fading to pink or reddish tones when mature. |
Ranunculus lyallii (Mountain Buttercup, Mount Cook Buttercup, Mount Cook Lily) This species was discovered by David Lyall, Scottish botanist and doctor, and is endemic to New Zealand. Plants reach over three feet tall when mature, and grow from a stout rhizome root. Foliage is glossy and dark green, and flowers are white. Blooms have protruding yellow stamens. |
Ranunculus repens pleniflorus (Creeping Buttercup) This species grows well in zones 1-10 and 14-24, and is native to Eurasia. This plant is a vigorous grower with thick roots and runners that root at the joints. Forms a foliage clump 1 foot tall and 6 feet wide. Flowers are double and yellow. This species can be attractive as a groundcover but can become invasive if not controlled. |
Ranunculus sceleratus (Celery-Leaved Buttercup, Celery-Leaf Buttercup, Cursed Buttercup) This species is native to North America and Eurasia, and prefers to grow in moist habitats, including ponds and along streams. This species produces annual plants with deeply lobed foliage and small yellow flowers. |
Caring for Ranunculus
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 551, Ranunculus
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