Alpine buttercup

ranunculus parnassifolius

Also known as: ["Alpine crowfoot","Parnassian buttercup"]

Family: Ranunculaceae Genus: Ranunculus Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant native to alpine regions, known for its bright yellow flowers and deeply lobed leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","cold hardy","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Ranunculales
Family: Ranunculaceae
Genus: Ranunculus
Botanical Name: Ranunculus parnassifolius

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or shaded borders
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter and sand or perlite for aeration.
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; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for shaping or rejuvenation.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-draining, humus-rich soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid compacted soil; mulch to retain moisture.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); thrives in cooler climates with protection from extreme heat.

Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from heat sources.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Division of rhizomes or stem cuttings.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Prepare medium.
  2. Divide rhizomes or take cuttings.
  3. Apply hormone (if using).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.

Timeline

Rhizome division: immediate growth; stem cuttings: roots in 3–6 weeks, establishment in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Sharp knife, pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Ensure rhizomes have eyes for new growth; use sterile tools to prevent disease.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back stems, deadhead flowers, and trim yellowing foliage with clean cuts.

Pruning Plan

Remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves to encourage continuous blooming and maintain plant health.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; remove dead/damaged parts; shape lightly; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth starts.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Gently remove plant; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil; inspect roots; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.

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 saturating the soil; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf yellowing, or stunted growth in heat; leaf drop or browning in cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below freezing.

Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., mulch, cloche); move potted plants indoors; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.

Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade during peak sun, and water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Ranunculus parnassifolius may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Ranunculus parnassifolius can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to impaired nutrient uptake and potential plant death.

Leaf spots on Ranunculus parnassifolius may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Ranunculus parnassifolius due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, causing decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to the toxic effects of protoanemonin derived from ranunculin in Ranunculus parnassifolius. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

The plant contains ranunculin, which breaks down into protoanemonin, a compound toxic to dogs. Ingestion can lead to significant gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation.

⚠️ Symptoms:
drooling vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain lethargy skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of dogs. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Ranunculus parnassifolius contains ranunculin, which upon enzymatic hydrolysis releases protoanemonin, a toxic irritant. This compound can cause severe irritation to the gastrointestinal tract, skin, and mucous membranes upon ingestion.

⚠️ Symptoms:
severe mouth pain burning sensation nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Wash hands thoroughly after handling. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Ranunculus parnassifolius toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for this plant?

A: It thrives in cool, moist, well-drained soils and partial to full sunlight, typical of alpine environments.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its bright flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Ranunculaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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