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Description
Ranunculus trichophyllus, commonly known as three-leaf buttercup, is a species of flowering plant in the family Ranunculaceae. It is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 50 cm tall. The leaves are three-lobed and deeply divided, with toothed edges. The flowers are yellow with five petals, and bloom from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Ranunculus |
Appearance
Ranunculus trichophyllus has a distinctive appearance with its deeply divided, three-lobed leaves and bright yellow flowers. The leaves grow up to 15 cm long and have toothed edges. The flowers are up to 3 cm in diameter and have five petals. The plant grows up to 50 cm tall and has a spreading habit, with stems that can be hairy.
Care Guide
Ranunculus trichophyllus is generally easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
Water
Keep the soil evenly moist throughout the growing season, but do not let it become waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization
Feed the plant with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.
Soil
Ranunculus trichophyllus prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend heavy clay soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight
Plant Ranunculus trichophyllus in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but flowering may be reduced.
Hardiness Zones
Ranunculus trichophyllus is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ranunculus trichophyllus can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:
Slugs and Snails
These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of Ranunculus trichophyllus. Use slug bait or traps to control them.
Botrytis Blight
This fungal disease can cause gray mold on the leaves and flowers of the plant. Remove affected plant parts and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Ranunculus trichophyllus is native to North America and can be found in wetland areas such as marshes, swamps, and along streambanks. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate standing water for short periods of time.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ranunculus trichophyllus poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant contain protoanemonin, which can cause skin irritation and gastrointestinal distress if ingested.
Q: How often should I divide my Ranunculus trichophyllus?
A: Divide the plant every three to four years in the spring, after flowering has finished.
Q: Can I grow Ranunculus trichophyllus in a container?
A: Yes, Ranunculus trichophyllus can be grown in a container as long as it has sufficient drainage and the soil is kept moist.
Q: Can I propagate Ranunculus trichophyllus from cuttings?
A: No, Ranunculus trichophyllus is typically propagated from seed or by division.
Related Plants
- Ranunculus acris
- Ranunculus bulbosus
- Ranunculus repens
- Ranunculus sceleratus
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Ranunculus trichophyllus (threeleaf buttercup). Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=RATR
- Gardenia.net. (n.d.). Ranunculus trichophyllus (Three-leaf Buttercup). Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/ranunculus-trichophyllus-three-leaf-buttercup
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Ranunculus trichophyllus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287994
