Large White Buttercup (Ranunculus platanifolius)

Large White Buttercup

Ranunculus platanifolius

Broad maple-like leaves frame delicate white blooms, a soft contrast in mountain meadows. Perennial herbaceous flowering plant; common name: Maple-leaved Buttercup.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in cool mountain sunlight and tolerates dappled shade in warmer lowland areas.
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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 -10°C; prefers cool temperatures and avoids prolonged heat above 25°C.
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Broad, palmately lobed maple-like leaves with serrated margins, bright medium green.
  • Flower: White five-petaled blooms with bright yellow central stamens, 2–4 cm in diameter.
  • Stem: Erect, hollow, slightly hairy stems that branch near the upper foliage.
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry to the touch

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization entirely once flowering ends in late summer.

Composted banana peel tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute the mixture 1:20 with water before applying as a root drench to avoid nutrient burn.
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage extended flowering through early summer.
  • Cut back stems to ground level after foliage dies back naturally in autumn to prepare for winter dormancy.
  • Remove yellowing or damaged leaves promptly to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease risk.
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified toxic; ingestion leads to oral pain, hypersalivation, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Humans: Contains protoanemonin; ingestion causes oral burning, throat irritation, and mild nausea.

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden plant for cool shaded beds; limited historical medicinal use with strict preparation to neutralize toxicity.