Lesser Celandine
ranunculus flammula
Also known as: ["Fig Buttercup","Pilewort"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb with glossy, dark green leaves and small, bright yellow flowers, typically found in damp habitats.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","damp soil tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Ranunculus |
| Botanical Name: | Ranunculus flammula |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: moist woodland gardens, near streams or ponds, or in shaded garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; can tolerate damp conditions but not waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Moist, fertile, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves and stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight); tolerates dappled light in warmer climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in partial shade during intense summer heat; suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation with proper light adjustments.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid prolonged direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, or when top inch of soil is dry
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure good drainage.
Soil
moist, rich, humusy soil with good drainage
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Keep soil consistently moist; avoid compacted soil; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions during active growth.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent cool temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings; division is the most reliable method for Ranunculus flammula.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps by separating rhizomes.
- For cuttings, take 3–4 inch stems, remove lower leaves, and plant in moist medium.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when the plant is not in active flowering.
Environment
Warm, humid, and partially shaded environment; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix (e.g., peat moss and perlite); can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but can help with root initiation, especially for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 2–4 weeks, mature plant in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or shears, small pots, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Divide only healthy, vigorous clumps; use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off unwanted growth at the base; avoid cutting into healthy stems.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Check for dead or diseased parts; use clean tools; prune to improve air circulation; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or the soil degrades; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root condition; prepare new pot with fresh soil; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone to encourage deep roots; allow water to penetrate soil but avoid pooling; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth, especially in spring; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf burn in excessive heat; root rot or slow growth in cold, waterlogged soil.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if soil is consistently cold and wet; may enter dormancy in severe cold.
Solution: Ensure well-drained soil to prevent cold waterlogging; protect roots with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below 32°F (0°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicRanunculus flammula is toxic to cats due to the presence of ranunculin, which converts to protoanemonin, leading to gastrointestinal and dermal irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant contains ranunculin, which metabolizes into protoanemonin, causing irritation to the dog's digestive system and skin upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicRanunculus flammula contains ranunculin, which upon enzymatic hydrolysis releases protoanemonin, a toxic irritant. Ingestion can cause severe irritation to the gastrointestinal tract and skin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ranunculus flammula toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Where does Ranunculus flammula typically grow?
A: It thrives in damp habitats such as wet meadows, stream banks, and marshy areas.
Q: Is Ranunculus flammula considered a weed?
A: Yes, it is often classified as an invasive weed in some regions due to its rapid spread.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, or when top |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
