Little Crowfoot

ranunculus abortivus

Also known as: ["Little Buttercup","Small Crowfoot"]

Family: Ranunculaceae Genus: Ranunculus Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A small, herbaceous perennial with finely divided leaves and small, white flowers, native to North America.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light); adjust based on intensity and season.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; provide shade during extreme heat.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun in midday summer.

Watering

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

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil

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

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid compacted soil; ensure good drainage.

Temperature

Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); prefers cooler conditions in summer.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; keep away from heat sources.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering; stop feeding in dormant periods; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Transplant when rooted.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 3–4 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove yellowing or dead leaves.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth; shape the plant as needed.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tools.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape lightly; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.

Method

Gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water gently; place in appropriate light.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water when the top inch of soil feels 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 flower bud drop.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, or leaf drop due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.

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 abortivus can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or viral infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant vigor.

Wilting in Ranunculus abortivus is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root damage, which can impair nutrient uptake and lead to plant decline.

Leaf spots on Ranunculus abortivus are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic area and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Ranunculus abortivus is typically caused by fungal pathogens or excessive moisture, leading to tissue decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Ranunculus abortivus, particularly due to protoanemonin, which can lead to severe irritation of the gastrointestinal tract and skin.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy diarrhea excessive grooming skin redness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

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

⚠️ Symptoms:
drooling vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Ranunculus abortivus contains ranunculin, which upon enzymatic hydrolysis releases protoanemonin, a toxic irritant. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal and dermal irritation, with potential systemic effects if large quantities are consumed.

⚠️ Symptoms:
burning sensation nausea vomiting diarrhea skin blistering
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ 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 abortivus toxic to pets?

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

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

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

Q: What are the common problems with this plant?

A: Common issues include leaf spots and wilting.

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