Contents
Description
Ranunculus Gracilipes, also known as Slender Foot Buttercup, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. This plant is native to the western United States, particularly in California and Oregon. It is a herbaceous perennial that can grow up to 20 inches tall and 12 inches wide. The stems are slender and hairy, with small leaves that are deeply lobed and toothed. The flowers of Ranunculus Gracilipes are yellow and have five petals, with a diameter of around 1 inch.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Ranunculus |
| Species | Gracilipes |
Appearance
Ranunculus Gracilipes is a beautiful plant that can add color to any garden. Its stems are thin and hairy, with small leaves that are deeply lobed and toothed. The flowers of Ranunculus Gracilipes are yellow and have five petals, with a diameter of around 1 inch. The petals are smooth and shiny, and the center of the flower has a cluster of stamens and pistils. Ranunculus Gracilipes blooms from late spring to summer.
Care Guide
Ranunculus Gracilipes is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to take care of. Here are some tips on how to care for it:
- Water: Ranunculus Gracilipes prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: You can fertilize Ranunculus Gracilipes once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Ranunculus Gracilipes prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure to plant it in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Ranunculus Gracilipes can grow in hardiness zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ranunculus Gracilipes is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap out of the plant, causing it to weaken and wilt. You can get rid of aphids by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves of the plant, leaving holes and damage. You can control them by using slug and snail bait or by handpicking them.
- Crown rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant to rot at the crown, leading to wilting and death. You can prevent crown rot by planting the plant in well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Ranunculus Gracilipes is native to the western United States, particularly in California and Oregon. It can be found in meadows, woodland areas, and other moist habitats. This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and it can grow in hardiness zones 7 to 10.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ranunculus Gracilipes grow in containers?
A: Yes, Ranunculus Gracilipes can grow in containers as long as the container is at least 12 inches wide and has drainage holes.
Q: Is Ranunculus Gracilipes poisonous?
A: Yes, Ranunculus Gracilipes is toxic to both humans and animals if ingested.
Q: How often should I fertilize Ranunculus Gracilipes?
A: You can fertilize Ranunculus Gracilipes once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Ranunculus Gracilipes tolerate frost?
A: No, Ranunculus Gracilipes is not frost-tolerant and should be protected during cold weather.
Related Plants
- Ranunculus Bulbosus: A perennial plant that produces yellow flowers and belongs to the Ranunculaceae family.
- Ranunculus Acris: A perennial plant that produces yellow flowers and belongs to the Ranunculaceae family.
- Ranunculus Repens: A creeping perennial plant that produces white flowers and belongs to the Ranunculaceae family.
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Ranunculus gracilipes Hook. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=RAGR3
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Ranunculus gracilipes. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281083&isprofile=0&
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Ranunculus gracilipes. Retrieved from https://ucanr.edu/sites/hill/Plant_Collection/Ranunculus_gracilipes/
