Woolly Buttercup (Ranunculus lanuginosus)

Woolly Buttercup

Ranunculus lanuginosus

Soft, silvery foliage contrasts with sunny yellow blooms. Perennial herbaceous wildflower; common name: Woolly Buttercup.

Full sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerate dappled sunlight in warmer regions to prevent foliage scorching
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid allowing the root zone to dry out completely during active growth
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Temperature Hardy to cold winter temperatures down to -15°C; prefers cool summer conditions below 25°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal leaves are heart-shaped, covered in dense silvery-white woolly hairs; stem leaves are smaller and divided
  • Flower: Bright yellow, five-petaled blooms, 2–3 cm in diameter, clustered at stem tips
  • Stem: Erect, hairy stems branching near the top
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Care Guide

Watering

Water regularly to maintain moist soil; apply mulch around plants to retain moisture

Fertilization

Apply a balanced diluted fertilizer once monthly. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to prioritize bloom production over foliage growth

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle a thin layer around the base of plants to boost soil calcium levels without introducing excess nitrogen
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms promptly to encourage extended flowering through early summer
  • Cut back foliage to ground level after flowering to promote healthy regrowth in the following growing season
  • Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to improve airflow and prevent fungal disease spread
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, oral pain, and abdominal discomfort

Humans: Contains ranunculin, which breaks down to protoanemonin; ingestion causes mild oral irritation and nausea

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental wildflower for rock gardens, cottage garden borders, and naturalized meadow plantings