Grass-leaved Buttercup

ranunculus gramineus

Also known as: ["Grass-leaved Crowfoot","Grass-leaved Ranunculus"]

Family: Ranunculaceae Genus: Ranunculus Category: Flowers

Overview

A small, herbaceous perennial with grass-like leaves and yellow flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Ranunculales
Family: Ranunculaceae
Genus: Ranunculus
Botanical Name: Ranunculus gramineus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in partial shade
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
  • 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.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; more frequently during peak bloom.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on tidiness and deadheading.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil drainage or incorrect pH.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and weather.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; test soil pH annually.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); thrives in spring/autumn conditions.

Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent cool conditions for best growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in fall to prepare for dormancy; use organic options for gentle nutrition.

Propagation

Methods

Division of rhizomes or stem cuttings in spring.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Divide rhizomes carefully.
  2. Prepare cuttings with 2–3 nodes.
  3. Plant in moist medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Early spring when new growth begins.

Environment

Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional, but can help with stem cuttings.

Timeline

Rhizome division may establish in weeks; stem cuttings take 3–6 weeks to root.

Tools Needed

Sharp knife, pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots.

Quick Tips

Keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture; divide rhizomes when overcrowded.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip off faded flowers just above a leaf node; trim yellowing foliage at the base.

Pruning Plan

Remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves to encourage continuous blooming and prevent disease.

Tools

Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.

Checklist

Check for dead or diseased parts; prune after flowering; sanitize tools between cuts.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.

Method

Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation.

Checklist

Check root bound status; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize fungal issues; ensure excess water drains away.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the roots, avoiding foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water moderately during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in fall/winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf yellowing, or stunted growth in extreme heat; root rot or leaf drop in cold, damp conditions.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures can cause root damage or dormancy; prolonged cold may lead to death if not protected.

Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can scorch leaves, cause wilting, or halt growth; may go dormant in extreme heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase before fertilizing; 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; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Ranunculus gramineus can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or root rot, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant health decline.

Wilting in Ranunculus gramineus is often a sign of water stress, either due to insufficient watering or root damage from overwatering or pathogens, which can lead to dehydration and eventual plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Ranunculus gramineus are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthesis, defoliation, and potentially the spread of infection to other parts of the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Ranunculus gramineus is typically caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to fungal infections that compromise the plant's structural integrity and nutrient uptake.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Ranunculus gramineus, with ranunculin and protoanemonin causing severe irritation to the gastrointestinal tract and skin.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy excessive grooming skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

The plant is toxic to dogs due to the presence of ranunculin and protoanemonin, which can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation upon contact.

⚠️ Symptoms:
drooling vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of dogs. If ingestion occurs, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Ranunculus gramineus contains ranunculin, which upon enzymatic hydrolysis releases protoanemonin, a toxic irritant. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal and dermal irritation due to its volatile oil content.

⚠️ Symptoms:
severe mouth pain burning sensation nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Wash hands thoroughly after handling. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Ranunculus gramineus toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: What are the typical care requirements for this plant?

A: It requires moderate care, including well-drained soil and partial sunlight.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Quick Reference
Family: Ranunculaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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