Contents
Description
Ranunculus Macropus, commonly known as the Large Buttercup, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, including Greece, Turkey, and Syria. The plant is characterized by its bright yellow flowers, which bloom in the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Ranunculus |
Appearance
Ranunculus Macropus grows up to 40 cm tall and 50 cm wide. Its stems are erect and hairy, with basal leaves that are lobed and toothed. The flowers are large and bright yellow, measuring up to 5 cm in diameter. Each flower has five petals and a cluster of yellow stamens in the center. The plant blooms from April to June and produces fruit in the form of an achene.
Care Guide
To care for Ranunculus Macropus, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ranunculus Macropus is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis blight. Pests such as aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant. To prevent these problems, ensure that the plant has good air circulation and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Ranunculus Macropus is commonly found in meadows, fields, and along roadsides in the Mediterranean region. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ranunculus Macropus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: Can Ranunculus Macropus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage.
Q: Does Ranunculus Macropus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the bright yellow flowers of the plant attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should Ranunculus Macropus be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Ranunculus Asiaticus
- Ranunculus Acris
- Ranunculus Repens
References
- “Ranunculus macropus Boiss. & Heldr.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 26 May 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:712448-1.
- “Ranunculus macropus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 26 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b698.
- “Ranunculus macropus.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 26 May 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/49253/ranunculus-macropus/details.
