Blister Buttercup
ranunculus bullatus
Also known as: ["Blister Buttercup","Ranunculus bullatus"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae, known for its small, rounded, yellow flowers and lobed leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Ranunculus |
| Botanical Name: | Ranunculus bullatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; lightly prune after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on tidying rather than drastic shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in dappled light during peak summer hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; shield from intense midday 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-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure soil is not compacted; maintain consistent moisture without saturation.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 50–70°F (10–21°C); sensitive to extreme heat or cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding when plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Division of tubers or root cuttings in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate tubers carefully.
- Plant 2–3 inches deep.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring when new growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for tuber division.
Timeline
Tubers may produce new shoots within 2–4 weeks; full establishment in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Garden shears, small trowel, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has roots and buds; avoid overwatering new cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip faded flowers and damaged foliage with clean cuts just above healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves to encourage continuous blooming and maintain plant health.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Remove dead/damaged parts; sterilize tools; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil; handle roots carefully.
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 away 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 in winter and increasing in summer.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf yellowing, or stunted growth in heat; leaf necrosis or frost damage in cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or death if below freezing.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover; move potted plants indoors during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat leads to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity and water more frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
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
ToxicRanunculus bullatus is toxic to cats, containing protoanemonin that induces severe gastrointestinal and dermal irritation.
⚠️ 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 bullatus 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 bullatus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How should Ranunculus bullatus be cared for?
A: It requires moderate care, including well-drained soil and partial shade.
Q: Does Ranunculus bullatus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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