About
Ranunculus aconitifolius, fair maids of France, is a clump-forming perennial to 60 cm with three- to five-lobed, dark, glossy-green leaves to 20 cm long. From late spring to early summer, tall, branching stems carry numerous saucer-shaped, white flowers opening from red buds. A beautiful and ornamental native perennial for a moist, shaded or partly shaded border.
About the genus
Ranunculus are annuals, biennials and perennials with variable, often palmately lobed or dissected leaves and bowl-shaped, usually shiny-petalled flowers in yellow, white, orange or red. A diverse and widely cultivated genus for borders, meadows and water features.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin irritant - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in humus-rich, fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, a rust and grey moulds