Buttercup-leaved Hare's-ear

bupleurum ranunculoides

Also known as: ["Buttercup-leaved Hare's-ear"]

Family: Apiaceae Genus: Bupleurum Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A herbaceous perennial plant with lance-shaped leaves and small yellow flowers, native to Europe.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Apiales
Family: Apiaceae
Genus: Bupleurum
Botanical Name: Bupleurum ranunculoides

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate climates
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on shaping and removing spent flowers or damaged parts.
Care Details

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

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.

Watering

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

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content

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

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat.

Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature shifts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

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

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional month.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; keep out of direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged foliage.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

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

Method

Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

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

How to Apply Water Properly

Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting the foliage. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme temperatures.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot if soil remains wet.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is not overly moist; provide a heat source if necessary.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat and water loss.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure drainage.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Bupleurum ranunculoides may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's overall health and photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Bupleurum ranunculoides is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced growth and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Bupleurum ranunculoides are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Bupleurum ranunculoides due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Bupleurum ranunculoides. The plant's irritant properties can cause discomfort, though severe poisoning is unlikely.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Bupleurum ranunculoides may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's compounds can irritate the digestive tract, leading to discomfort but typically not severe poisoning.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian for guidance.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Bupleurum ranunculoides contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's toxicity is generally low, but ingestion may lead to discomfort due to its irritant properties.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and minimize skin contact. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the plant.
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 Bupleurum ranunculoides toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How should I care for Bupleurum ranunculoides?

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

Q: Does Bupleurum ranunculoides attract wildlife?

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

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