Ranunculaceae

Description

Ranunculaceae is a family of flowering plants commonly known as the buttercup family. This family includes about 2,500 species of annuals and perennials, making it one of the largest families of flowering plants. Buttercups usually have bright yellow or white flowers, but some species have flowers that are pink, red, or purple.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Buttercups are herbaceous plants that can grow up to 3 feet tall. They have simple, alternate leaves that are usually lobed or divided. The flowers have 5 to 10 petals and numerous stamens. The fruit of buttercups is usually an achene or follicle.

Care Guide

Water

Buttercups need regular watering, especially during periods of drought. However, they do not like to be waterlogged, so make sure the soil is well-drained.

Fertilization

Buttercups do not require much fertilization. You can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in the spring or apply a liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.

Soil

Buttercups prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They can grow in a variety of soil types, but prefer slightly acidic soil.

Sunlight

Most buttercups prefer full sun to partial shade. However, some species can tolerate full shade.

Hardiness Zones

Buttercups are hardy in zones 3 to 9, depending on the species.

Common Pests & Diseases

Buttercups can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. They can also be attacked by slugs, snails, and aphids.

Habitat

Buttercups are found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and wetlands. They are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, but can also be found in South America, Africa, and Australia.

Question and Answer

Q: Can buttercups be grown indoors?

A: Yes, some species of buttercups can be grown indoors, but they require bright light and a cool, humid environment.

Q: Are buttercups poisonous?

A: Yes, buttercups contain a toxic compound called ranunculin that can cause skin irritation and blistering when crushed. They can also be toxic to livestock when ingested in large quantities.

Q: How do you propagate buttercups?

A: Buttercups can be propagated by seed or by dividing the plants in the spring or fall.

Q: How long do buttercups bloom?

A: Buttercups typically bloom in the spring and early summer, but some species can bloom throughout the summer and into the fall.

Related Plants

• Anemone
• Clematis
• Delpinium
• Helleborus
• Pulsatilla

References

• “Ranunculaceae.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 09 June 2021.
• “Buttercup.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 09 June 2021.
• “Ranunculaceae.” The Plant List. The Plant List, n.d. Web. 09 June 2021.