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Description
Ranunculus Asiaticus Delano White, commonly known as Persian Buttercup, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to the eastern Mediterranean and is widely cultivated for its showy, cup-shaped flowers. The flowers are mostly white with a yellow center and are around 3-5 cm in diameter. They bloom in spring and early summer and are perfect for cut flower arrangements. The plant grows up to 30 cm in height and spreads up to 15 cm wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Ranunculus |
Appearance
Ranunculus Asiaticus Delano White has a clump-forming growth habit and produces dark green, lobed leaves that are deeply divided. The leaves are around 5-7 cm long and 3-5 cm wide. The flowers are held on long stems and are mostly white with a yellow center. The petals are silky and delicate, giving the flower a tissue-paper-like appearance. The plant blooms in spring and early summer and reaches a height of around 30 cm. After the flowers fade, the plant produces seed pods that are hairy and spherical.
Care Guide
Ranunculus Asiaticus Delano White requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and needs to be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooming. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11 and should be protected from frost in colder regions.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ranunculus Asiaticus Delano White is susceptible to aphids, thrips, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to fungal diseases such as crown rot, powdery mildew, and botrytis. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Ranunculus Asiaticus Delano White is native to the eastern Mediterranean and is widely cultivated in gardens and as a cut flower. The plant prefers a warm, sunny climate and well-drained soil. It is commonly grown in Europe, North America, and Asia.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Ranunculus Asiaticus Delano White?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Is Ranunculus Asiaticus Delano White an annual or perennial plant?
A: Ranunculus Asiaticus Delano White is a herbaceous perennial plant that dies back in winter and regrows in spring.
Q: Can Ranunculus Asiaticus Delano White be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the soil is kept moist.
Q: How do I propagate Ranunculus Asiaticus Delano White?
A: The plant can be propagated by seed or by dividing the clumps in autumn.
Related Plants
- Ranunculus asiaticus
- Ranunculus acris
- Ranunculus bulbosus
- Ranunculus ficaria
References
- “Ranunculus asiaticus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b578
- “Ranunculus asiaticus.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/15321/i-ranunculus-asiaticus-i/details
- “Persian Buttercup.” Gardenia.net. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/ranunculus-asiaticus-persian-buttercup
