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Herbaceous Perennial

Ranunculus bulbosus
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

bulbous buttercup

A clump-forming hairy, sometimes semi-evergreen perennial to 40cm with fibrous roots and a swollen stem base, and three-lobed, dark green basal and lower stem leaves. In late spring to early summer produces finely branched stems with saucer-shaped, shiny, golden-yellow flowers

Other common names
butter daisy
crowflower
see moreSt Andrew's turnip
St Anthony's turnip
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Yellow Green
Summer Yellow Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Ranunculaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous or Semi evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Potentially harmful
Harmful 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
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

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in humus-rich, fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed or division

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews, a rust and grey moulds

Get involved

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