Contents
Description
Ranunculus Rionii, also known as Rion’s Buttercup, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to China, specifically in the provinces of Gansu and Sichuan, where it grows at an altitude of 2,800 to 4,000 meters above sea level. This plant species was first discovered by a French botanist named Ernest Henry Wilson in 1908 during his expedition in China.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Ranunculus |
| Species | Ranunculus Rionii |
Appearance
Ranunculus Rionii has a rosette growth habit and can reach a height of 10-20 cm. Its leaves are green, lobed, and divided into three parts. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and have yellow petals that are around 1.5 cm in diameter. The center of the flower has numerous stamens and pistils, making it look like a small pom-pom. The plant also produces achenes that are oval-shaped and have a hooked beak.
Care Guide
Water: Ranunculus Rionii prefers moist soil, so it is essential to water the plant regularly. However, make sure not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season, which is from spring to summer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5. It also needs a soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Ranunculus Rionii prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. However, in areas with high temperatures, it is best to provide some shade to protect the plant from the scorching sun.
Hardiness Zones: Ranunculus Rionii can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ranunculus Rionii is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. It can also be attacked by pests like aphids and slugs. To prevent these problems, make sure the plant is in a well-ventilated area and remove any infected or damaged leaves. You can also use organic pesticides to control pests and diseases.
Habitat
Ranunculus Rionii is endemic to China and can be found growing in rocky areas, open meadows, and forests at an altitude of 2,800 to 4,000 meters above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ranunculus Rionii survive in hot and humid areas?
A: It is not recommended to grow Ranunculus Rionii in hot and humid areas, as it prefers cooler temperatures.
Q: How often should I fertilize Ranunculus Rionii?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season, which is from spring to summer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Ranunculus Rionii?
A: Ranunculus Rionii can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 8.
Q: How often should I water Ranunculus Rionii?
A: Ranunculus Rionii prefers moist soil, so it is essential to water the plant regularly. However, make sure not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.
Related Plants
- Ranunculus Acris
- Ranunculus Flammula
- Ranunculus Lingua
- Ranunculus Repens
References
- Flora of China Editorial Committee. (1998). Flora of China. Science Press and Missouri Botanical Garden Press.
- Ranunculus rionii. (n.d.). Retrieved January 22, 2022, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/189493/i-ranunculus-rionii-i/details
- Ranunculus rionii. (n.d.). Retrieved January 22, 2022, from https://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/Ranunculus_rionii
