Buttercups (Latin: Ranunculus) are a large genus of herbaceous plants in the Ranunculaceae family, comprising between 600 and 1,750 species. The name comes from the Latin word "rana" (frog), as many species prefer moist, swampy areas.
 |
| Buttercups |
Key Characteristics
Appearance: Stems range from 15 to 80 cm in height. Leaves are usually palmately divided or dissected.
Flowers: In the wild, they are most often solitary, bright yellow with five glossy petals. Garden forms (ranunculi) come in a variety of colors (white, pink, red, orange) and are often densely double, reminiscent of roses or peonies.
Toxicity: All buttercup species contain the toxic substance protoanemonin. The plant sap can cause skin irritation and burns, and if ingested, can cause serious poisoning.
Popular Species
Ranunculus acris: Also known as "night blindness," this is a common meadow flower with yellow petals.
Garden Buttercup (Ranunculus asiaticus): A popular ornamental plant. It is prized for its lush, long-lasting flowers when cut.
Creeping Buttercup (R. repens): Has creeping shoots, quickly roots at the nodes, and is often considered a weed.
Cultivation and Care (for garden species)
Planting: Prefers fertile, light, and well-drained soil in sunny or partially shaded areas.
Wintering: Garden buttercups do not tolerate temperatures below -7°C (15°F). In temperate climates, their tubers should be dug up for the winter and stored in a cool place at around 5°C (41°F).
Watering: Requires moderate watering; Excess moisture can lead to root rot or fungal diseases.
💂♂️Read more popular blog posts: 1) Formosa Tulips. The flower color of the Formosa tulip bulb is yellow with a green flame. As it blooms, the flower becomes more and more yellow.
No comments:
Post a Comment