About
This short-lived aquatic perennial with submerged, branched slender stems and leaves divided into thread-like segments, and palmately lobed, dark green floating leaves, with solitary white flowers 2cm across in summer.
About the genus
Ranunculus can be annuals, biennials, evergreen or herbaceous perennials, with rhizomes, tubers or spreading by runners. The leaves are variable but often palmately lobed or dissected and the flowers usually bowl-shaped
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeAquatic
HabitMatforming, Submerged, Floating
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
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 muddy pool margins in water 15-60cm deep, in full sun. Will grow in slow or fast moving fresh water. See pond plants for further advice
PruningCut back after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed sown as soon as ripe
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, a rust and grey moulds