Ranunculus lanuginosus

Ranunculus lanuginosus, commonly known as the woolly buttercup, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Ranunculaceae family. Native to North America, it thrives in various habitats, including meadows, prairies, and open woods. The plant can grow up to 30 cm tall and features hairy stems that are either erect or ascending. Its basal leaves are complemented by alternate stem leaves, both displaying a lobed or toothed margin. The bright yellow flowers of Ranunculus lanuginosus, each with five petals, can reach up to 2 cm in diameter. Blooming from May to July, the woolly buttercup attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers. The plant reproduces through seeds that are dispersed by wind or water. Historically, Native Americans have used Ranunculus lanuginosus for medicinal purposes, treating ailments such as headaches, toothaches, and rheumatism. Overall, the woolly buttercup is an attractive wildflower that enhances natural landscapes. It also provides ecological benefits by supporting pollinators in their quest for nectar-rich flowers during the blooming season.

Characteristics

Plant Type

Herb

Life Cycle

Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Genus

Ranunculus

Family

Ranunculaceae

Hardiness Zone

4-9

Mature Height

40 cm

Mature Spread

8 cm to 20 cm

Leaf Color

Green, Blue

Leaf Type

Evergreen, Deciduous

Flower Color

Yellow, Gold

Flower Size

2.54 cm

Bloom Time

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer

Planting Time

Spring, Autumn

Harvest Time

Early summer, Mid summer

Native Area

Libya, India, Austria, Sweden, Slovakia, Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia, Morocco, Belarus, Russia, Germany, Koppen, Romania, Latvia, Belgium, France, Netherlands, Tunisia, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Poland, Greece, Ukraine, Serbia, Lithuania, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Denmark, Albania, United Kingdom, Hungary, Algeria

Tags (5)

Common Names (9)