About
Ranunculus calandrinioides, the high alpine buttercup, is a tufted perennial to 20 cm producing broadly lance-shaped, grey-green basal leaves to 8 cm long that die down in summer. From one to three pink-flushed, white flowers 5 cm across on erect stems are produced in spring. A beautiful and unusual buttercup for a sunny, very well-drained alpine house or trough.
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
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesRock garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants
Native toMorocco
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 gritty, humus-rich, sharply drained soil in full sun. Or grow in a pot in an alpine house. It dies down in summer, keep dry while dormant. Long-lived but slow growing
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, a rust and grey moulds