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Description
Ranunculus Alpestris, commonly known as Alpine buttercup or Alpine spearwort, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to the mountainous regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. The plant grows up to 30cm tall and produces yellow, cup-shaped flowers that bloom in early summer. The leaves are dark green and deeply lobed, with toothed edges. The plant has a fibrous root system and can spread by self-seeding or by rhizomes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eukaryota | Plantae | Tracheophyta | Magnoliopsida | Ranunculales | Ranunculaceae | Ranunculus |
Appearance
The Alpine buttercup has a striking appearance with its bright yellow flowers that bloom in early summer. The flowers are cup-shaped and have five petals that are 1-2cm long. The plant has dark green, deeply lobed leaves with toothed edges that grow up to 10cm long. The plant grows up to 30cm tall and has a fibrous root system. The flowers are followed by seed pods that contain small, black seeds.
Care Guide
Ranunculus Alpestris is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater it as this can cause root rot. The plant should be fertilized in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ranunculus Alpestris is not generally prone to pest or disease problems. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Additionally, the plant can be affected by powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that can be treated with a fungicide. Aphids and spider mites may occasionally infest the plant, but these can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Ranunculus Alpestris is native to the mountainous regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. It prefers to grow in well-drained soil in areas with full sun to partial shade. The plant is often found in alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and along streams and rivers. It is adapted to cold temperatures and can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ranunculus Alpestris poisonous?
A: Ranunculus Alpestris is not generally considered to be poisonous. However, the plant contains a toxic compound called protoanemonin, which can cause skin irritation and inflammation if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Ranunculus Alpestris?
A: Ranunculus Alpestris should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater it as this can cause root rot. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can Ranunculus Alpestris be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Ranunculus Alpestris can be grown in containers. However, care should be taken to ensure that the soil is well-drained and that the plant is not overwatered.
Q: When should I fertilize Ranunculus Alpestris?
A: Ranunculus Alpestris should be fertilized in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. This will help to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Related Plants
- Ranunculus Acris
- Ranunculus Ficaria
- Ranunculus Repens
- Ranunculus Occidentalis
References
- “Ranunculus Alpestris.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287350.
- “Ranunculus Alpestris.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/187137/.
- “Ranunculus Alpestris.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/101237/i-Ranunculus-alpestris-i/Details.
