Granada Buttercup
ranunculus granatensis
Also known as: ["Granada Crowfoot"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Iberian Peninsula, known for its yellow flowers and toxic properties.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Ranunculus |
| Botanical Name: | Ranunculus granatensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or container with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- 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; can use a cactus or succulent mix amended with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season; major pruning after flowering or in early spring.
- 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; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure based on season to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from direct midday sun to avoid leaf burn; for indoor plants, place near east or west-facing windows with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing in direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on season and weather conditions.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix that doesn't retain excess moisture; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–70°F (15–21°C); can tolerate cooler nights down to 50°F (10°C); avoid extreme heat above 80°F (27°C).
Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; adjust watering based on temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
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 just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70°F (21°C) and humidity above 60%.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use water propagation for stem cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools to prevent infection; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back growing tips to encourage branching; deadhead spent flowers by cutting just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as needed; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for refreshing soil and providing space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues; allow excess water to drain completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring and fall, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter and increasing to every 5–7 days in summer.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold; bud drop or failure to flower in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, leading to reduced growth and susceptibility to fungal diseases; may cause leaf discoloration or necrosis in severe cases.
Solution: Move plants to a warmer location or provide a heat source; use frost cloth for outdoor plants; avoid overwatering in cold conditions to prevent root rot.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration and nutrient uptake issues in extreme cases.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; water more frequently but ensure proper drainage.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicRanunculus granatensis is toxic to cats, containing compounds that lead to severe irritation of the gastrointestinal tract and skin upon contact or ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant is toxic to dogs due to the presence of protoanemonin, which causes significant gastrointestinal distress and dermal irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicRanunculus granatensis 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 granatensis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the common problems with this plant?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves, wilting, and leaf spots.
Q: Is this plant suitable for beginners?
A: It requires moderate care, so it is better suited for intermediate gardeners.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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