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Description
Ranunculus Penicillatus, commonly known as the Brushed Buttercup, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is a native of North America and is found growing in moist meadows, prairies, and along streambanks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Ranunculus |
Appearance
Ranunculus Penicillatus grows up to 1-3 feet tall and has a spread of about 1-2 feet. The plant has bright yellow flowers that are about 1 inch in diameter and have five petals. The leaves are deeply lobed and are arranged in a basal rosette. The stem is hairy and branched, and the plant blooms from May to August.
Care Guide
Ranunculus Penicillatus requires moderate care and attention to thrive well. Below are some tips on how to care for the Brushed Buttercup:
Water
The plant prefers moist soil and requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. However, be careful not to overwater the plant as it may lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil
The Brushed Buttercup prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
Sunlight
The plant requires full to partial sunlight to thrive well. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade may lead to poor growth and flowering.
Hardiness Zones
Ranunculus Penicillatus thrives well in hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Brushed Buttercup is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be prone to some pests and diseases, such as aphids, slugs, snails, powdery mildew, and rust. Regular inspection and treatment with appropriate pesticides and fungicides can help control these pests and diseases.
Habitat
Ranunculus Penicillatus is native to North America and is found growing in moist meadows, prairies, and along streambanks. It prefers moist soil and requires regular watering, especially during the dry season.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ranunculus Penicillatus poisonous?
A: Yes, the Brushed Buttercup is poisonous if ingested by humans or animals. It contains a toxic compound called protoanemonin that can cause skin irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Q: Can Ranunculus Penicillatus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Brushed Buttercup can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and has good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Ranunculus Penicillatus?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, preferably once a month, to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: When is the best time to plant Ranunculus Penicillatus?
A: The best time to plant the Brushed Buttercup is in the spring, after the last frost, or in the fall.
Related Plants
- Ranunculus acris (Meadow Buttercup)
- Ranunculus asiaticus (Persian Buttercup)
- Ranunculus bulbosus (Bulbous Buttercup)
- Ranunculus ficaria (Lesser Celandine)
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/ranunculus_penicillatus.shtml
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=RAPE9
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/ranunculus-penicillatus-brushed-buttercup
