Pyrenean Buttercup

ranunculus pyrenaeus

Also known as: ["Pyrenean Crowfoot"]

Family: Ranunculaceae Genus: Ranunculus Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Pyrenees, known for its bright yellow flowers.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or shaded borders
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; light pruning after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on deadheading and shaping.
Care Details

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

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun.

Watering

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

Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.

Soil

well-draining, humus-rich soil

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

Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay mixes.

Temperature

Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.

Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in dormancy.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

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

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip stems just above a leaf node or lateral bud.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage.

Method

Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; 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 at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain completely.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency in winter dormancy.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf discoloration, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 32°F (0°C).

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in excessive heat; growth may stagnate.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity and water more frequently if needed.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; 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

Yellowing leaves in Ranunculus pyrenaeus may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or disease, potentially affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Ranunculus pyrenaeus can result from water stress, root damage, or pathogen infection, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Ranunculus pyrenaeus are typically caused by fungal or bacterial infections, which can reduce photosynthetic efficiency and weaken the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Ranunculus pyrenaeus is often caused by overwatering or fungal pathogens, which can lead to decay and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the irritant protoanemonin, which can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and dermal reactions.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy diarrhea excessive grooming skin redness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure plants are inaccessible to cats. Contact a veterinarian immediately if poisoning is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

Dogs are susceptible to the toxic effects of protoanemonin, which can cause significant gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact.

⚠️ Symptoms:
drooling vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of dogs. Seek veterinary attention if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Toxic

Ranunculus pyrenaeus contains ranunculin, which upon enzymatic hydrolysis releases protoanemonin, a toxic irritant. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal and dermal irritation, with potential systemic effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
severe mouth pain burning sensation nausea vomiting diarrhea skin blistering
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ 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 Ranunculus pyrenaeus toxic to pets?

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

Q: Where is Ranunculus pyrenaeus native to?

A: It is native to the Pyrenees mountain range.

Q: What are the common problems with Ranunculus pyrenaeus?

A: Common issues include yellow leaves, wilting, and leaf spots.

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