Bristly Buttercup
ranunculus hispidus
Also known as: ["Bristly Crowfoot","Downy Buttercup"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant in the buttercup family, characterized by its bristly stems and yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Ranunculus |
| Botanical Name: | Ranunculus hispidus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid heavy clay soils.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; selective removal of old or diseased stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun, filtered afternoon light preferred). Adjust for hotter climates to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun if moving from shade; protect from intense midday sun; in containers, move to shadier spots during peak heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot; prioritize morning watering to reduce fungal risk.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; maintain consistent moisture; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler spring and fall conditions but avoids extreme heat.
Protect from frost; shield from intense summer heat; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to prevent excessive foliage growth; apply after watering to avoid root burn; stop in late summer.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or root cuttings in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Dig up rhizomes, divide into sections with at least one growth bud, replant at the same depth, and water lightly.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division.
Timeline
Roots establish within 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, pruning shears, clean pots.
Quick Tips
Divide only healthy rhizomes; ensure each section has a growth point; avoid overwatering new divisions.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead or yellowing leaves at the base; trim spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean bypass pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; avoid cutting healthy stems; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container, as overcrowding can impede growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow excess to drain away. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring and fall, reducing frequency in winter and increasing in summer. Adjust based on rainfall and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged freezing conditions.
Solution: Provide frost protection with mulch or cloths; move potted plants indoors; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, and potential dormancy in excessive heat.
Solution: Increase watering frequency, provide shade during peak sun, improve air circulation, and mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; water before fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and early summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of ranunculin and protoanemonin found in Ranunculus hispidus. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation.
⚠️ 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 hispidus contains ranunculin, which upon enzymatic hydrolysis releases protoanemonin, a toxic irritant. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal and dermal irritation, with potential for systemic toxicity in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ranunculus hispidus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: What are the common problems with this plant?
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 |
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