Whorled Crowfoot
ranunculus penicillatus
Also known as: ["Whorled Buttercup","Penicillate Buttercup"]
Overview
A perennial aquatic or semi-aquatic plant with whorled leaves and small yellow flowers, native to temperate regions.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Ranunculus |
| Botanical Name: | Ranunculus penicillatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: near water edges, in shaded garden beds or containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead leaves appear.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light but prefers dappled sunlight for 3–4 hours daily.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light if moving from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; ideal for shaded garden beds or indoor areas with indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun, provide shade during peak hours, monitor leaf color for light stress.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
moist, rich, loamy soil with good organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage, enrich with organic matter, and maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions and may struggle in heat above 75°F (24°C).
Keep in cool spots, avoid sudden temperature shifts, protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth, dilute to prevent burn, and flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or root cuttings in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate healthy rhizomes, plant 2–3 inches deep, water lightly, and maintain humidity until established.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division.
Timeline
Roots may develop within 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Garden knife, small trowel, rooting hormone (optional), plastic bag for humidity.
Quick Tips
Use sharp tools to avoid damage, keep soil consistently moist, and protect from direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead foliage at the base with clean cuts to avoid damaging healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves, use clean tools, cut close to the base, dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any crowded roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Check root crowding, use fresh soil, ensure good drainage, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season, avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without saturating the foliage; allow excess water to drain fully to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility; mix in perlite or sand to improve drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in excessive heat; cold damage may show as blackened or mushy foliage.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth or cause root damage, especially if combined with wet soil.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth; ensure soil is not waterlogged to prevent cold root damage.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently to keep soil cool.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, avoid winter feeding, flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Ranunculus penicillatus, with protoanemonin causing severe irritation to the digestive 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 skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicRanunculus penicillatus contains ranunculin, which upon enzymatic hydrolysis releases protoanemonin, a toxic irritant. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal and dermal irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ranunculus penicillatus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Where does Ranunculus penicillatus grow best?
A: It thrives in aquatic or semi-aquatic environments with partial shade.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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