Celery-leaved Buttercup

ranunculus sceleratus

Also known as: ["Buttercup","Celery-leaved Crowfoot","Celery-leaved Buttercup"]

Family: Ranunculaceae Genus: Ranunculus Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A herbaceous annual or biennial plant in the buttercup family, known for its bright yellow flowers and toxic properties.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Ranunculales
Family: Ranunculaceae
Genus: Ranunculus
Botanical Name: Ranunculus sceleratus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: moist garden beds or near water features
  • Suitable For:
    Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
  • Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when plants become overgrown.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or crowded stems.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or dappled sunlight per day.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper drainage.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for signs of sunburn.

Watering

every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging to prevent rot; adjust based on weather and soil conditions.

Soil

moist, fertile, well-drained loam

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure soil is not compacted; maintain consistent moisture; amend with organic matter annually.

Temperature

Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings or divide rhizomes.
  2. Prepare medium.
  3. Plant and water.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Monitor for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil.

Quick Tips

Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for cuttings; avoid overwatering.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip stems just above a leaf node or lateral branch; avoid cutting into old wood.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or damaged foliage to improve air circulation and appearance; encourage bushier growth.

Tools

Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead or diseased parts; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day to minimize fungal issues; ensure excess water drains away.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a fine nozzle to avoid disturbing delicate foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water regularly during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in dormancy.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite for drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to disease.

Solution: Provide frost protection, move to a warmer location, or use a heat mat for seedlings.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, and flowering can be reduced.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, and ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in dormancy.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Ranunculus sceleratus can indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or infection by pathogens such as viruses or bacteria, which disrupt chlorophyll production and photosynthesis.

Wilting in Ranunculus sceleratus is typically a response to water stress, either due to insufficient soil moisture or root damage from pathogens, leading to reduced water uptake and turgor pressure loss in plant tissues.

Leaf spots on Ranunculus sceleratus are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in necrotic lesions that can impair photosynthesis, weaken the plant, and potentially lead to defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Ranunculus sceleratus is often caused by fungal pathogens like Fusarium or Pythium species, leading to decay of plant tissues, impaired nutrient and water transport, and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Ranunculus sceleratus, with protoanemonin causing severe irritation to the gastrointestinal tract and skin.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy skin irritation excessive grooming
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

The plant is toxic to dogs due to the presence of protoanemonin, which can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation upon contact.

⚠️ Symptoms:
drooling vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Ranunculus sceleratus contains ranunculin, which upon enzymatic hydrolysis releases protoanemonin, a toxic irritant. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal and dermal irritation.

⚠️ Symptoms:
severe mouth pain burning sensation nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Wash hands thoroughly after handling. Keep away from children.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Ranunculus sceleratus toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does this plant require much maintenance?

A: No, it has low maintenance needs.

Q: Does Ranunculus sceleratus attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Quick Reference
Family: Ranunculaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 5–7 days during active
Suitable For: ["wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Fringed Larkspur
View
Wood Anemone
View
Larkspur
View
Sagebrush Buttercup
View