Overview
Ranunculus acris is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Ranunculus, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Ranunculus acris grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, containers and cut flowers.
About
Ranunculus acris, commonly known as meadow buttercup, is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the Ranunculaceae family. It grows to a height of 0.5 to 1 metre with a spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full size within 2 to 5 years. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and is adaptable to various soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, with a preference for moist but well-drained conditions. It is suitable for exposed or sheltered locations and is notable for its interest during both summer and winter seasons.
About the genus
Ranunculus is a large genus of about 1750 species of flowering plants in the family Ranunculaceae. Members of the genus are known as buttercups, spearworts and water crowfoots.
Wikipedia contributors, "Ranunculus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Ranunculus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Ranunculus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Ranunculus acris size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Borders, containers, cut flowers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Ranunculus acris
- Propagation
- Division, seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Ranunculus acris?
Ranunculus acris prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Ranunculus acris need?
Ranunculus acris is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Ranunculus acris grow?
Ranunculus acris reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Ranunculus acris hardy in the UK?
Ranunculus acris has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Ranunculus acris?
Division, seed.
More in the Ranunculus genus
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