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Description
Ranunculus Enysii, commonly known as the Lesser Spearwort, is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). This herbaceous perennial is native to Europe and western Asia, where it can be found growing in wet meadows, marshes, and ditches. The plant grows up to 60cm (24 inches) tall and produces bright yellow flowers with five to eight petals from May to August. The plant has a creeping rhizome, which helps it spread and colonize new areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Ranunculus |
| Species | Ranunculus Enysii |
Appearance
The Lesser Spearwort has a slender stem that can grow up to two feet tall, with leaves that are narrow and lance-shaped. The plant’s flowers are bright yellow and have five to eight petals. Each petal is about 1cm in length and has a glossy surface. The plant’s fruit is a cluster of small, dry achenes that are about 2mm in length.
Care Guide
The Lesser Spearwort prefers wet soils, so it is important to keep the soil moist. It is best to plant the species in boggy areas, near ponds or streams, or in wet meadows. The plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade but prefers to be in a sunny location. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer may be helpful. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lesser Spearwort is generally pest and disease-free, but it may be susceptible to slugs and snails. These pests can be controlled with slug and snail bait or by handpicking. Diseases that may affect the plant include crown rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spots. These can be managed by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The Lesser Spearwort is native to Europe and western Asia, where it can be found growing in wet meadows, marshes, and ditches. The plant prefers to grow in boggy areas, near ponds or streams, or in wet meadows. It can tolerate full sun to partial shade but prefers to be in a sunny location. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Lesser Spearwort toxic?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to both humans and animals if ingested in large quantities. Contact with the sap can also cause skin irritation in some individuals.
Q: Can the Lesser Spearwort be used in gardens?
A: Yes, the plant can be used in water gardens or boggy areas. It is important to keep the soil moist and provide good drainage.
Q: How often should the Lesser Spearwort be watered?
A: The plant prefers wet soils, so it is important to keep the soil moist. Watering should be done as needed to maintain the soil moisture level.
Q: How can I propagate the Lesser Spearwort?
A: The plant can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Divide the rhizomes and replant in a wet location.
Related Plants
- Ranunculus Flammula
- Ranunculus Lingua
- Ranunculus Repens
- Ranunculus Sceleratus
References
- https://www.britannica.com/plant/Ranunculus-Enysii
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/ranunculus-enysii
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=RAEN2
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/22774/ranunculus-enysii/details
