Golden Section Buttercup
ranunculus auricomus
Also known as: ["Woodland Buttercup","Fragrant Buttercup"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with delicate yellow flowers, native to woodland areas in Europe.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Ranunculus |
| Botanical Name: | Ranunculus auricomus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with good air circulation, protected from strong winds
- 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: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when foliage declines.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; partial shade during peak afternoon sun in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday rays; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots drain well.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, 50–65°F (10–18°C); prefers cooler conditions, especially during dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent cool temps.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; stop in dormancy; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Division of tubers or rhizomes; sometimes from seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate tubers/rhizomes.
- Plant 2–3 inches deep.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for seeds.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: 2–3 weeks to germinate, 6–12 months to mature.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, small pots, well-draining soil, mister.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has roots; plant at correct depth; maintain humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves or stems at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove only dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
One size up; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; best when dormant.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check root health; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature flowering due to stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dormancy; prolonged cold can damage roots.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, or premature bud drop.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; move to a cooler location.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Ranunculus auricomus, with ingestion leading to gastrointestinal irritation and potential skin reactions. Protoanemonin is the primary irritant responsible for these effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicSimilar to humans, ingestion of Ranunculus auricomus by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation due to the presence of protoanemonin. The plant is not typically attractive to dogs but can cause harm if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicRanunculus auricomus contains ranunculin, which upon enzymatic hydrolysis releases protoanemonin, a toxic irritant. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact with fresh plant parts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ranunculus auricomus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Where does Ranunculus auricomus grow best?
A: It thrives in woodland areas with partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Q: Does Ranunculus auricomus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
