Large-leaved Buttercup
ranunculus macrophyllus
Also known as: ["Large-leaved Crowfoot","Broad-leaved Buttercup"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with large, lobed leaves and yellow flowers, native to mountainous regions.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Ranunculus |
| Botanical Name: | Ranunculus macrophyllus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with partial shade or a container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent scorching; place in filtered sunlight outdoors or near an east-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
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 aeration.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 50–70°F (10–21°C); thrives in cooler spring and fall conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting, apply rooting hormone if using, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth around 65–75°F (18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth typically appears within 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim back leggy stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape plant, remove spent flowers, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenating soil and root system.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil mix, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting foliage; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring and fall, reducing frequency to every 14–21 days in winter and increasing to every 5–7 days in summer.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility and structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move indoors; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall in excessive heat above 80°F (27°C).
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently to combat heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, fertilize during growing season, avoid winter feeding, flush soil periodically.
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
ToxicCats are also susceptible to the toxic effects of Ranunculus macrophyllus. The plant's irritant properties can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact or ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicSimilar to humans, ingestion of Ranunculus macrophyllus by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal irritation due to the presence of protoanemonin. The plant can cause significant discomfort and potential health issues if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicRanunculus macrophyllus contains ranunculin, which upon enzymatic hydrolysis releases protoanemonin, a toxic irritant. Ingestion can cause severe irritation to the gastrointestinal tract and skin. The plant's effects are primarily due to its irritant properties, leading to inflammation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ranunculus macrophyllus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: What are the typical growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, often found in mountainous regions.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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