Cypriot buttercup
ranunculus cortusifolius
Also known as: ["Cypriot buttercup","Wolfsbane"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region, particularly Cyprus, with large, glossy leaves and 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 cortusifolius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered garden bed with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter. A mix of peat, perlite, and loam works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season. Major pruning is typically done in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on plant size and health. Avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to contr
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 direct sun if moving from shade. Protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf burn. Indoors, place near east or west-facing windows.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon heat
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix that retains moisture but drains well; avoid heavy clay soils; check drainage by watering and observing runoff.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoids frost. Warmer temperatures may require increased humidity and shade.
Monitor temperature changes; use shade cloth in summer; group plants to create microclimates; avoid placing near drafty windows.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; avoid fertilizing newly transplanted or stressed plants; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem cuttings or rhizome sections.
- Apply rooting hormone if using cuttings.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light for cuttings. Division requires similar conditions post-planting.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; moist, loose soil for rhizome division.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for stem cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 3–4 weeks under ideal conditions. Rhizome division establishes more quickly if healthy divisions are made.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; remove dead or yellowing leaves; cut spent flowers to redirect energy to new growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers or damaged foliage. Focus on improving air circulation and aesthetics.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or damaged parts; shape as desired; remove spent flowers; clean up debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Fresh soil and more space can rejuvenate growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water at the base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without pooling. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 5–7 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 10–14 days in fall/winter. Adjust based on humidity and rainfall.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress; bud drop during temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage. Prolonged cold may lead to leaf discoloration and eventual plant decline.
Solution: Move plants indoors or to a protected area below 50°F (10°C). Use frost cloth or mulch to insulate roots in mild cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering. High temperatures may also increase water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, and ensure good air circulation to reduce stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid foliage contact; flush soil periodically; stop in dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicRanunculus cortusifolius is toxic to cats, with protoanemonin causing severe irritation to the gastrointestinal tract and potential systemic effects if ingested.
⚠️ 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 potential systemic toxicity upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicRanunculus cortusifolius contains ranunculin, which upon enzymatic hydrolysis releases protoanemonin, a toxic irritant. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal and dermal irritation, with potential systemic effects in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ranunculus cortusifolius toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Ranunculus cortusifolius?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Ranunculus cortusifolius attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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