Originally from Australia, Asia, Europe, North America, and Central America, buttercups are found throughout the world. The attractive flowers of buttercups have five petals that are available in various shades of red, pink, etc.
The buttercup plant is considered a nuisance by most farmers but is a favorite plant for gardeners since it can be found in many gardens across the country.
The species most commonly found in gardens is the creeping buttercup or Ranunculus repens. It grows about three inches tall and spreads across the ground.
In this post, we will discuss common buttercup varieties, how they are cultivated, and how to care for them.
California Ranunculus
Also known as Ranunculus Carlifornicus, this buttercup is unique in that it has nine to seventeen petals. It is commonly found in California, hence the name California buttercup. The petals are shiny and yellow.
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The Meadow Buttercup
The meadow buttercup can grow up to a height of three feet. Because of its height, it is also called ‘tall buttercup’. Its flowers are only one centimeter wide. They are also found everywhere.
The Aconite Leaf Buttercup
The petals of the Aconite Leaf Buttercup are white and the leaves are hairy. This variety is also known as Ranunculus Aconitifolius and can grow up to three feet tall. The flowers can grow approximately as tall as the plant itself when they bloom. The Aconite leaf buttercup is found everywhere.
Bulbous Buttercup
Bulbous buttercups, scientifically known as Ranunculus bulbosus, are a type of flowering plant that can grow up to 16 inches in height. They are characterized by their bright yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and early summer.
The flowers are typically cup-shaped and have five petals that are arranged in a radial pattern. The stems of the bulbous buttercup are also distinctive, as they are covered in fine hairs that give them a slightly fuzzy texture.
These hairs help to protect the plant from herbivores and other potential threats.
Bulbous buttercups are commonly found in meadows, fields, and other open areas throughout Europe and parts of Asia. They are a popular ornamental plant and are often grown in gardens for their bright and cheerful blooms.
However, it is important to note that the plant is toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation in some individuals.
Buttercup Plant Care
Like most flowers, buttercups are easy to care for and maintain although extra care must be taken to achieve the best results.
Water Regularly
To thrive, buttercups need moisture. As a gardener, be sure to water regularly to avoid dry soil. Avoid overwatering!
However, stop watering in the spring after the flowering period when you notice the leaves turning yellow.
Another important issue is whether you should leave the plant in the ground or dig it up after the blooming season. This depends solely on the water content in the soil. In regions where there is little rain, leave the plant in the ground so that it can continue to grow next season.
However, in regions where rain is guaranteed, remove the plant. Cut off the leaves and store the plant in a dry place to replant later when conditions are better.
Add Fertilizer and Mulch
Ranunculus flowers need nutrient-rich soil to thrive. Add an all-purpose fertilizer to the soil. Be careful not to let the fertilizer come in contact with the stem, as this will damage the plant.
Mulching is important for buttercups to thrive. It is especially important to mulch in warmer climates, as mulching reduces water loss through evaporation. For example, you can mulch your garden with cocoa shells or bark from trees.
Remove Dead Flowers
Cut off dead flowers below the flower head to encourage new growth. Cutting dead flowers also prolongs the blooming period.
Are buttercups susceptible to pests and diseases?
Yes. Like any other plant, buttercups are susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common pests and diseases that affect buttercups.
Aphids
The most common pest of buttercups is aphids. Aphids are small green insects that feed on the sap in the stems of buttercups. These tiny insects can cause the plant to show signs of distress such as discolored leaves.
To control aphids on buttercups, spray a mixture of dish soap, water, and essential oils on the plants.
Birds
Birds are also a common pest of buttercups. Birds feed on the young and tender shoots. Prevent birds by covering the plants with a net especially when they are still young. Alternatively, plant buttercups when they are about 4-6 inches tall. At this time, birds find buttercups less attractive.
Root Rot
Root rot is a plant disease caused by a fungus. In buttercups, root rot is characterized by wilting and dropping of the plant.
Keep in mind that root rot is caused by a fungus and cannot be reversed. The only option would be to remove affected plants to avoid the infection from spreading to other plants.
Prevent root rot in buttercups by making sure the soil is well-drained and the plants receive full sun.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew affects the growth and production of buttercups. It occurs primarily in moist and poor air circulation areas. Place buttercups in full sun to avoid powdery mildew. It is characterized by tiny white powdery spots on older leaves that quickly spread to other leaves.
Powdery mildew can be controlled by spraying plant leaves with compost tea.
Summary
There are several varieties of buttercups. Buttercups generally require minimal maintenance. Ensure ample moisture, nutrient-rich soil, and full sunlight for plants to thrive.
Although buttercup flowers are considered a nuisance by farmers, they provide a profusion of blooms in gardens and yards since they blend well with certain grasses.
