About
This dainty annual buttercup was once a common cornfield weed but is now found only in a few scattered locations in England and Scotland. The leaves are deeply divided, with three or five narrow leaflets, and the flowers are relatively small, pale lemon-yellow, appearing in late spring and early summer. The seeds have recognisable, spiky seed cases. Provides nectar for bees and butterflies, and seed for birds.
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 typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife 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
CultivationNaturally found in disturbed or cultivated ground on a wide range of soils. Tolerant of heavy clay, it prefers neutral to alkaline soil in full sun
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free