Tuberous Buttercup
ranunculus tuberosus
Also known as: ["Tuberous Crowfoot","Ranunculus bulbosus var. tuberosus"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant in the buttercup family, known for its tuberous roots and yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Ranunculus |
| Botanical Name: | Ranunculus tuberosus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with good air circulation, or container with drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; avoid removing more than 10–15% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure seasonally to avoid scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Avoid waterlogging to prevent rot; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; water at the base to keep foliage dry.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid overwatering to maintain soil structure; test pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–70°F or 15–21°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C); thrives in cooler spring and fall conditions.
Keep away from drafty areas; use a fan for gentle air circulation in hot weather; monitor temperature fluctuations near windows.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; switch to a low-nitrogen formula if foliage grows excessively; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Tuber division is the most reliable method; can also propagate from seed, though it may take longer to establish.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate healthy tubers.
- Plant 2–3 inches deep with the growing points facing up.
- Water lightly and keep warm.
Best Time: Early spring, just before active growth begins; ensure tubers are firm and healthy before division.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and coarse sand; can also use a standard potting mix with added grit.
Hormone
Not typically required for tuber division; optional for seed propagation to encourage germination.
Timeline
Tubers may sprout within 2–4 weeks under ideal conditions; plants typically establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or pruners, small pots, well-draining soil mix, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Ensure tubers are not damaged during division; plant at the correct depth to avoid rot; maintain humidity for faster sprouting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead or damaged leaves at the base; deadhead faded flowers just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or yellowing foliage to improve air circulation and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune dead or diseased parts; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late fall or early winter, after foliage dies back and before the next growing cycle.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently lift the tubers; trim any damaged roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil at the same depth.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the tubers outgrow their container; best done during dormancy to minimize stress.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; check for root rot or pests; ensure proper spacing for tuber growth.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid overhead watering to minimize fungal issues; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in dormancy (late fall to early spring).
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for 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 bud drop in cold stress; leaf scorch in intense sunlight.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; tubers can rot if soil remains waterlogged in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location if indoors; provide frost protection outdoors; ensure well-draining soil to prevent rot.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow; tubers can desiccate if soil dries out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with tubers; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Ranunculus tuberosus, particularly the roots and tubers. Protoanemonin can cause severe irritation to the gastrointestinal tract and skin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe tubers and roots of Ranunculus tuberosus are toxic to dogs due to the presence of protoanemonin. Ingestion can lead to significant gastrointestinal distress and dermal irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicRanunculus tuberosus 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 tuberosus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: Does Ranunculus tuberosus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Ranunculus tuberosus?
A: It requires moderate care and maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
