Mountain Buttercup
ranunculus montanus
Also known as: ["Alpine Buttercup","Mountain Crowfoot"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to mountainous regions, known for its yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Ranunculus |
| Botanical Name: | Ranunculus montanus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or raised beds with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter such as compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season; major pruning after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on desired shape and health of the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade for 4–6 hours daily. Full sun can scorch leaves; adjust based on intensity and season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to brighter light; provide shade during peak afternoon sun; for indoor plants, rotate regularly for even light exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct midday sun; use sheer curtains for filtered light; adjust placement seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid waterlogging, especially in winter; prioritize root zone moisture over foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers not to exceed 70°F (21°C) for prolonged periods.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources; maintain consistent temperatures to prevent shock.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn roots; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is not in full bloom and temperatures are moderate.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; moist, loose soil for rhizome division.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is beneficial for stem cuttings to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 3–6 weeks under ideal conditions; rhizome division establishes more quickly if healthy divisions are made.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node; remove yellow or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins is ideal.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container, as crowded roots can impede growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal risk. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring and fall, reducing frequency in winter and increasing in summer. Adjust based on rainfall and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of leaves in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting despite adequate water.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, causing growth cessation and potential tissue damage if temperatures drop below freezing without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; move potted plants to sheltered locations; use frost cloths for outdoor plants during freezes.
Hot Stress
Accelerates water loss, leading to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may trigger dormancy.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide shade during peak heat; improve air circulation around the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and early summer). Cease fertilizing in late summer and fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Ranunculus montanus, with protoanemonin causing severe irritation to the mouth, digestive system, and skin. Cats may be more sensitive due to their grooming habits.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant is toxic to dogs due to the presence of protoanemonin, which causes significant irritation to the gastrointestinal tract and skin. Systemic absorption can lead to more severe symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicRanunculus montanus 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 montanus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Where is Ranunculus montanus typically found?
A: It is native to mountainous regions.
Q: Does Ranunculus montanus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| 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
