Threadleaf Buttercup
ranunculus trichophyllus
Also known as: ["Water Crowfoot","Threadleaf Crowfoot"]
Overview
A submerged aquatic plant with delicate, thread-like leaves and small yellow flowers, native to freshwater habitats.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Ranunculus |
| Botanical Name: | Ranunculus trichophyllus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shallow water garden or indoor aquatic setup
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–10"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; more frequently if plant becomes leggy or overgrown.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer months.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place in filtered light outdoors; shield from intense midday sun indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to diffuse strong light; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 3–5 days
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid letting roots sit in water.
Soil
rich, loamy, slightly acidic
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use a pot with drainage holes; check soil moisture regularly.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–70°F or 15–21°C); thrives in cooler climates and may struggle in heat above 75°F (24°C).
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heating vents; maintain stable temperatures; use a thermometer to monitor conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing if plant shows signs of stress.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (if using).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–70°F or 18–21°C).
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 develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth typically appears within 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle air circulation to prevent mold.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems to encourage branching; trim dead or yellowing leaves at the base; shape as desired with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged foliage; focus on improving air circulation and encouraging bushier growth.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune in early morning or evening; remove only dead or damaged growth first.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant from pot; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for refreshing soil and providing more space.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently loosen root ball; add fresh soil mix; water lightly; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level to avoid wetting foliage; ensure even moisture distribution; allow excess water to drain completely to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water more frequently during active growth (spring/summer) and reduce in winter dormancy.
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, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat; browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold may lead to root damage or dormancy.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors during cold snaps; maintain consistent soil moisture to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor; may enter dormancy to conserve energy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently to compensate for evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply during active growth only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicRanunculus trichophyllus is toxic to cats due to the presence of ranunculin, which converts to protoanemonin. This irritant can cause severe gastrointestinal and dermal reactions in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant contains ranunculin, which metabolizes into protoanemonin, a compound toxic to dogs. Ingestion can lead to significant gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicRanunculus trichophyllus contains ranunculin, which upon enzymatic hydrolysis releases protoanemonin, a toxic irritant. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal and dermal irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ranunculus trichophyllus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant grow in water?
A: Yes, it is a submerged aquatic plant.
Q: What are the common problems with this plant?
A: Common issues include rotting and wilting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days |
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