Prickly Buttercup
ranunculus muricatus
Also known as: ["Knapweed Buttercup","Spiny Buttercup"]
Overview
An annual herbaceous plant with yellow flowers and spiny stems, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Ranunculus |
| Botanical Name: | Ranunculus muricatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny area with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- 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: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season; major pruning after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate. Avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. For indoor placement, provide the brightest window exposure possible.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to diffuse harsh midday sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (15–25°C). Can tolerate mild frosts but avoid prolonged exposure to freezing conditions.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use shade cloth in summer; protect from frost with row covers.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to retain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (20–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light. Mist occasionally to maintain humidity.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., peat-based with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; deadhead spent flowers by cutting just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Clean tools before use; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 cm in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot. This plant benefits from fresh soil and root space.
Checklist
Choose a clean pot with drainage holes; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Apply until water begins to drain from the bottom, then stop to avoid saturation. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth, reducing frequency in dormancy. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility and structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback. Prolonged cold can lead to root damage.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location during frost. Apply a layer of mulch to protect roots in-ground.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering. Plants may enter a semi-dormant state.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase humidity around the plant, and water more frequently without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with leaves.
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
ToxicRanunculus muricatus is toxic to cats, with protoanemonin causing significant irritation to the digestive system and skin. Cats may exhibit signs of distress and discomfort following ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant is toxic to dogs due to the presence of protoanemonin, which causes severe irritation to the gastrointestinal tract and skin. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to serious systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicRanunculus muricatus contains ranunculin, which upon enzymatic hydrolysis releases protoanemonin, a toxic irritant. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal and dermal irritation, with potential systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ranunculus muricatus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require much care?
A: No, it is very low maintenance and tough.
Q: Can Ranunculus muricatus be grown indoors?
A: It is typically an outdoor plant due to its weedy nature and space requirements.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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