Hooked Buttercup
ranunculus recurvatus
Also known as: ["Hooked Crowfoot","Hooked Buttercup"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to North America, known for its small yellow flowers and hooked fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Ranunculus |
| Botanical Name: | Ranunculus recurvatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded woodland garden or moist, partially shaded meadow
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to well-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly moist conditions but prefers good drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; more frequently if the plant is overgrown or damaged.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or broken parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 3–4 hours of morning sunlight or dappled light is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from indoors to outdoors; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a location with filtered light or shade during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Use sheer curtains to filter direct light; rotate plant for even growth; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging; prioritize morning watering to reduce fungal risk.
Soil
moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix of garden soil and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Monitor temperature changes; protect from sudden drops; adjust watering based on heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in fall; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or root cuttings; best done in early spring before active growth begins.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes carefully, ensure each section has roots and buds.
- Plant cuttings in medium, keep moist and warm until roots form.
Best Time: Early spring when the plant is emerging from dormancy.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can also be propagated in water initially.
Hormone
Not typically required but can be used for root cuttings to encourage faster rooting.
Timeline
Rhizome division can establish quickly in 2–4 weeks; root cuttings may take 4–8 weeks to root.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife, small pots, rooting medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Divide rhizomes when the plant is dormant; use clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings in a warm, humid spot.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off unwanted growth with clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged parts, use clean tools, make precise cuts, dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation and growth.
Checklist
Check root health, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid foliage wetting, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent disease.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure soil is loose and airy.
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, and can lead to root damage if frozen.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold drafts; mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to soil, avoid foliage, monitor plant response.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Ranunculus recurvatus, with protoanemonin causing severe irritation to the gastrointestinal tract and skin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant is toxic to dogs due to the presence of protoanemonin, which can cause significant gastrointestinal distress and dermal irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicRanunculus recurvatus contains ranunculin, which upon enzymatic hydrolysis produces 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 recurvatus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Ranunculus recurvatus considered a weed?
A: Yes, it is often classified as a weed due to its invasive nature.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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