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Small-flowered Buttercup

Ranunculus parviflorus

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Ranunculales
Family:
Ranunculaceae (Buttercup)
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Annual
Maximum Size:
40 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Fields, gardens, roadsides, seaside.

Flower:
֍
Yellow, 5 petals
 
Tiny pale yellow flowers, 3 to 6mm in size. The sepals are recurved. The flower doesn't look typical of a buttercup.
Fruit:
The fruit is an achene with short hooked spines.
Leaves:
A pale green annual flower roundish, lobed and well-toothed basal leaves.
Other Names:
Smallflower Buttercup, Small-flowered Crowfoot.
Frequency (UK):
Occasionally seen  

Similar Species

Other Information

Summary

Ranunculus parviflorus, also known as small-flowered buttercup or small-flowered crowfoot, is a species of flowering plant in the family Ranunculaceae. It is native to Europe and is commonly found in grassland, meadows, and pastures. R. parviflorus is a herbaceous perennial that grows to a height of up to 30 centimeters. It has long, narrow, green leaves and small, yellow or orange flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The plant is valued for its ornamental value and is commonly grown in gardens and parks. It is also used as a food source and is an important habitat plant for a variety of wildlife species. R. parviflorus is known for its ability to tolerate a wide range of growing conditions and is resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be toxic to livestock if ingested in large quantities.

Blog

Ranunculus parviflorus, commonly known as the Small-flowered Buttercup, is a charming wildflower that can add a touch of beauty to any garden. This delicate and graceful plant is native to North America and is commonly found growing in meadows, prairies, and along streams.

One of the most notable features of the Small-flowered Buttercup is its yellow, cup-shaped flowers that bloom from early spring to mid-summer. The flowers have a delicate and airy appearance, with petals that are slightly frilly and a bright yellow color that provides a striking contrast against the plant's green leaves.

Another interesting feature of this plant is its ability to grow in a variety of soils and environments. The Small-flowered Buttercup can tolerate both dry and wet soils, as well as full sun to partial shade. This makes it an ideal plant for gardeners who want to add a touch of wild beauty to their gardens without having to worry about special care requirements.

The Small-flowered Buttercup is also an important source of food and habitat for a variety of wildlife, including bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Its bright yellow flowers attract these creatures, providing them with nectar and a place to rest and collect food.

If you are looking to add the Small-flowered Buttercup to your garden, it is easy to do so. Simply plant the seeds in a well-drained soil in a location that receives either full sun or partial shade. The seeds should germinate in about two to three weeks and the plants should begin blooming within a few months.

Additionally, it is important to note that the Small-flowered Buttercup is a low maintenance plant and does not require much upkeep. It is also a self-seeding plant, meaning that it will produce new seed each year and can spread throughout your garden on its own, adding to its beauty and charm.

One thing to keep in mind when planting the Small-flowered Buttercup is that it is toxic to animals, so it is not recommended to plant it in areas where pets or livestock may consume it. Despite this, the plant is safe for human consumption and was used by indigenous peoples in North America as a food source.

If you are interested in adding the Small-flowered Buttercup to your garden, it can be found at local garden centers or online. You can also gather seeds from existing plants in the wild, but be sure to check local laws and regulations before doing so.

In conclusion, the Small-flowered Buttercup is a beautiful and low maintenance plant that can bring a touch of wild beauty to any garden. Whether you are an experienced gardener or just starting out, this charming wildflower is sure to bring a smile to your face each time you see it blooming in your garden.


Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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