Buttercup Ranunculus acris 'Flore Pleno' (d)
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as the double-flowered buttercup features a bounty of fully double, intricately ruffled flowers. The petals boast a dazzling yellow hue that shines brightly, mimicking the cheerful color of sunshine. The lush, green leaves are deeply lobed and create a dense, mounded backdrop for the vivid blossoms. Each flower is composed of numerous layers of petals, which lends the plant a pompom-like effect, adding a touch of whimsy and visual interest to gardens. This ornamental variety, with its unique doubled blooms, offers a more showy and elaborate aesthetic compared to its single-flowered counterparts. The double-flowered buttercup's striking appearance makes it a favorite among gardeners looking to infuse their spaces with vibrant color and charming textural contrasts.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Bachelor's Button, Double Meadow Buttercup, Double Buttercup
Common names
Ranunculus acris var. pleniflorus, Ranunculus acris var. flore-pleno, Ranunculus acris 'Multiplex'
ToxicityTo humans
The Buttercup is known to be poisonous to humans. All parts of the plant contain the toxic compound ranunculin, which can cause irritation and blistering of the skin and mucous membranes upon contact. If ingested, it can lead to symptoms such as salivation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, convulsions or paralysis may occur.
To pets
The Buttercup is also toxic to pets. Ingesting any part of the plant can result in similar symptoms as in humans, such as excessive drooling, mouth irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In extreme cases, eating this plant may lead to serious complications like convulsions or cardiac issues. It is important to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the Buttercup.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Ranunculus acris 'Flore Pleno', commonly known as the double-flowered buttercup, is highly valued for its aesthetic appeal due to its lush, vibrant double blossoms.
- Pollinator Attraction: The plant can attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which are important for pollination in the garden ecosystem.
- Long Blooming Season: This cultivar often has a lengthy blooming period that adds color and vibrancy to gardens throughout the growing season.
- Low Maintenance: Generally, double-flowered buttercups are considered low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established in suitable conditions.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, they can tolerate periods of drought, although they prefer moist conditions.
- Versatility in Landscaping: The plant can be used in a variety of landscaping scenarios including borders, wildflower meadows, and as a ground cover in cottage gardens.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Insect-repelling: Buttercup's sap is an irritant to many insects, thus planting it in a garden can help minimize the presence of certain pests naturally.
- Companion planting: Buttercup can be grown as a companion plant for some vegetables like tomatoes or asparagus to deter specific pests that are sensitive to its toxic properties.
- Dye production: The bright yellow flowers of the buttercup can be used as a source for natural dyes though they are not as commonly employed for this purpose compared to other botanical sources.
- Garden design: Double-flowered forms of buttercups, such as the Ranunculus acris 'Flore Pleno', can add aesthetic value to ornamental gardens with their lush, full blooms.
- Photography: The striking appearance of buttercups, especially the 'Flore Pleno' variety, makes them a popular subject for photographers specialising in botanical and nature photography.
- Education: Can be utilized to teach children about the protective measures of plants as buttercups contain an irritant sap that wards off predators.
- Ritualistic: In some cultures, certain plants like buttercups have historically been used in festive or ritualistic adornments during cultural festivals.
- Pollinator support: Buttercups can play a role in supporting local pollinators like bees and butterflies, which are attracted to their flowers for nectar and pollen.
- Soil erosion control: Their capability to form a dense mat of foliage allows them to be used in areas where control of soil erosion is desired.
- Crafts: Dried buttercup flowers may be used in floral crafts, such as making natural potpourri or pressed flower art, due to their bright colors and shape.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Buttercup is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Buttercup is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Charm: In the Victorian language of flowers, ranunculus, commonly known as buttercup, often represents charm and attractiveness, possibly due to its lustrous, glossy petals that catch the light and draw the eye, just as a charismatic person might.
- Humility: Despite their bright appearance, buttercups are often found low to the ground in meadows and fields, which can symbolize a modest or humble nature.
- Radiance and Cheer: The bright yellow color of the typical buttercup is reminiscent of sunlight and warmth, symbolizing joy, happiness, and the ability to brighten someone's day.
- Childishness: Given the childhood pastime of holding a buttercup under the chin to see if it reflects a yellow glow, the flower sometimes represents innocence and a playful, childlike view of the world.
WaterThe Meadow Buttercup, or Ranunculus acris 'Flore Pleno', thrives with consistent moisture, especially during its active growth in the spring and early summer. It's best to water this plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Generally, this means providing about 1 inch of water weekly, which translates to around 0.6 gallons per square foot. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of leaf diseases; instead, apply water directly to the base of the plant. During periods of prolonged rain or drought, adjust the frequency of watering accordingly to maintain even soil moisture.
LightMeadow Buttercup prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It will benefit from a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. However, in hotter climates, providing some afternoon shade can prevent the leaves from scorching. The plant can tolerate a variety of light conditions but flowering and foliage density will be best with ample sunlight.
TemperatureMeadow Buttercup can endure a wide range of temperatures but grows best when daytime temperatures are between 60°F to 75°F. It can survive colder conditions and is hardy down to about -30°F, making it suitable for many temperate regions. The plant enters dormancy in winter and prefers not to be exposed to prolonged temperatures over 80°F, as this can cause stress.
PruningPrune Meadow Buttercup to remove spent flowers and encourage further blooming. This can be done throughout the blooming season, usually from late spring to mid-summer. Additionally, cut back the foliage after blooming has finished, typically in the late summer or fall, to maintain a tidy appearance and promote healthy growth for the next season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Buttercup requires a well-drained garden soil mixed with compost and a balanced pH around 6.0 to 6.5. A mix with loamy soil, rich in organic matter, is ideal for the Buttercup's growth.
RepottingButtercup does not generally require frequent repotting; do it only when the plant has outgrown its current container, which is typically every 2-3 years.
Humidity & MistingThe Buttercup prefers moderate humidity levels, typical of outdoor conditions, and does not require special humidity adjustments when grown outdoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade; well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleThe Buttercup (Ranunculus acris 'Flore Pleno') begins its life as a seed that germinates in early spring when soil temperatures warm. Once the seedling emerges, the plant develops a rosette of leaves at the soil surface. The Buttercup then enters a vegetative growth phase, during which it develops a sturdy stem and lush foliage. This perennial plant will later produce its characteristically bright, double-flowered yellow blooms in late spring to early summer. After flowering, the Buttercup sets seed; these seeds will either fall to the ground to begin a new life cycle or can be collected for propagation. As a hardy plant, after the blooming season, it will go dormant during the winter, with the roots surviving underground to send up new growth the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Buttercup (Ranunculus acris 'Flore Pleno') is through division, which is typically done in the fall. To propagate, carefully dig up the entire plant, ensuring a good portion of the root system is intact. Gently separate the clumps into smaller sections, making sure each has at least one growth point or eye. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate spread. Water the new divisions well to help establish the roots. This simple and effective method helps gardeners to multiply their Buttercup plants efficiently and maintain the health and vigor of their garden.
