Kuepfer's Buttercup
ranunculus kuepferi
Also known as: ["Alpine Buttercup"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to alpine regions, characterized by its bright yellow flowers and divided leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Ranunculus |
| Botanical Name: | Ranunculus kuepferi |
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":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–8"}
- 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; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; lightly prune after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove dead or faded parts; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering in heavy soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures (50–65°F or 10–18°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a thermometer to monitor microclimates.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of tubers; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
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; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node to promote bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy stems to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/faded parts; shape as needed; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for tuberous growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
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 even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if below freezing.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move indoors if temperatures drop below 32°F (0°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity and water more frequently in hot weather.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
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
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Ranunculus kuepferi. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal upset and dermal irritation, with potential for systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicSimilar to humans, ingestion of Ranunculus kuepferi by dogs leads to the release of protoanemonin, causing significant gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicRanunculus kuepferi 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 kuepferi toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Ranunculus kuepferi?
A: It thrives in alpine conditions with well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight.
Q: Does Ranunculus kuepferi attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its bright flowers.
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
