Corn Buttercup

ranunculus arvensis

Also known as: ["field buttercup","corn crowfoot"]

Family: Ranunculaceae Genus: Ranunculus Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A small annual herbaceous plant with yellow flowers, often found in cultivated fields and grasslands.

Benefits & Perks

["disease resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: garden bed in open, sunny area
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: low
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; lightly prune after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun during peak hours.

Watering

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

Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility

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

Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter annually.

Temperature

Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); prefers cooler nights.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.

Propagation

Methods

Seed or division; stem cuttings can be challenging.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Prepare medium.
  2. Sow seeds or take cuttings.
  3. Maintain moisture.
  4. Provide warmth.
  5. Transplant once rooted.

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

Environment

Warm (65–75°F/18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining seed starting mix or perlite and peat moss blend.

Hormone

Optional for cuttings; not necessary for seeds or division.

Timeline

Seeds: 2–4 weeks to germinate; cuttings: 3–6 weeks to root; division: immediate establishment.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), seed trays, misting bottle.

Quick Tips

Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips; deadhead spent flowers; trim back overgrown stems.

Pruning Plan

Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.

Tools

Clean pruners or scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.

Method

Gently remove plant; trim roots if crowded; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water 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 thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the root zone without disturbing the soil surface.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

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

Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat for seedlings; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.

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

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

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

Fertilizing Method

Use 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 arvensis can indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pathogenic infections, potentially affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Ranunculus arvensis may result from water stress, root damage, or pathogenic infections, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Ranunculus arvensis are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency, premature leaf drop, and potential spread to other plants.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Ranunculus arvensis is often caused by fungal pathogens or excessive moisture, which can lead to decay, nutrient transport disruption, and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the toxins in Ranunculus arvensis, particularly protoanemonin. Even small amounts ingested can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation. The plant's toxicity can lead to significant discomfort and potential systemic effects in felines.

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

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian promptly.
Dogs
Toxic

Dogs are susceptible to the toxic effects of Ranunculus arvensis, primarily due to the presence of protoanemonin. Ingestion can lead to significant gastrointestinal distress and dermal irritation, with potential for systemic toxicity in severe cases. The plant's irritant properties can cause severe discomfort and health issues in canines.

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

if eaten

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

Ranunculus arvensis 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. The plant's toxicity is due to its ability to induce inflammation and tissue damage.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain skin irritation blistering
🌿 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 Corn Buttercup toxic to pets?

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

Q: Does Corn Buttercup attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies.

Q: Is Corn Buttercup considered a weed?

A: Yes, it is often classified as a weed due to its invasive nature in cultivated fields.

Quick Reference
Family: Ranunculaceae
Care: very easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers"]
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