Ranunculus Recens

Description

Ranunculus Recens, commonly referred to as the Early Buttercup, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to Europe and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers that bloom in early spring. The plant can grow up to 30 cm tall and has a fibrous root system.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The leaves of Ranunculus Recens are dark green and lobed, with long petioles that attach them to the stem. The stem is thin and hairy, and holds a single bright yellow flower at its end. The flower has five to seven petals that are each about 2 cm long, and a large number of stamens in the center. After the flower has bloomed, it gives way to a small, spherical fruit that contains numerous small seeds.

Care Guide

Water

Ranunculus Recens prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly, especially during dry periods. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so be sure not to let the soil become waterlogged.

Fertilization

Fertilize Ranunculus Recens once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Soil

Ranunculus Recens prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but does not do well in heavy clay soils.

Sunlight

Ranunculus Recens prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but will produce fewer flowers.

Hardiness Zones

Ranunculus Recens is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Ranunculus Recens is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, slugs, snails, powdery mildew, and botrytis. To prevent these issues, keep the plant healthy by watering and fertilizing appropriately, and remove any diseased or damaged plant material promptly.

Habitat

Ranunculus Recens is native to Europe, where it grows in meadows, pastures, and open woodland. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Ranunculus Recens a good plant for beginners?

A: Yes, Ranunculus Recens is a relatively easy plant to care for and is a good choice for beginners.

Q: Can Ranunculus Recens be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Ranunculus Recens can be grown in containers as long as the container is big enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is well-drained.

Q: How long do the flowers of Ranunculus Recens last?

A: The flowers of Ranunculus Recens typically last for 2-3 weeks.

Q: Can Ranunculus Recens be propagated from seed?

A: Yes, Ranunculus Recens can be propagated from seed, but it is usually easier to propagate it by dividing the plant’s rhizomes in the fall.

Related Plants

• Ranunculus Asiaticus
• Ranunculus Bulbosus
• Ranunculus Lingua
• Ranunculus Occidentalis

References

• “Ranunculus Recens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c828.
• “Ranunculus Recens.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/15223/Ranunculus-recens/Details.
• “Ranunculus Recens.” PlantFiles, www.plantfiles.com/plant/ranunculus_recens.