Meadow Buttercup (Ranunculus acris) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and temperate Asia, known for its bright yellow, glossy flowers and deeply divided leaves. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, it plays a role in enhancing biodiversity and supporting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Although toxic and not suitable for direct food production, it contributes to a diverse ecosystem by providing habitat for beneficial insects. Historically, it has been used in folk medicine, though caution is advised due to its toxic properties. In a natural farming system, its presence can indicate healthy, moist soil conditions. It can be part of a meadow layer in a food forest, providing aesthetic appeal and ecological benefits.
Growing Details
Meadow Buttercup thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is best propagated by seed, which should be sown directly in the soil in spring. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as clover can enhance soil nitrogen levels, benefiting the buttercup. Avoid over-watering to prevent fungal diseases. Regular monitoring is advis
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Ranunculus acris</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and temperate Asia
applicable geo region: Europe, Asia
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 60 days
Harvest:
beginning
of July for 30 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses:
Medicinal Rating:
(1/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Meadow Buttercup has been used in folk medicine for its purported anti-rheumatic and rubefacient properties. However, due to its toxic nature, it should be used with caution and under professional guidance. The plant contains protoanemonin, which can cause skin irritation and is toxic if ingested.
health concerns: The plant contains protoanemonin, which can cause skin irritation and is toxic if ingested.
other uses:
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Ranunculus acris
common names: Tall Buttercup; Common Buttercup; Giant Butte
family: Ranunculaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Ranunculus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 20ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 25ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(5/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 1.0 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Meadow Buttercup thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is best propagated by seed, which should be sown directly in the soil in spring. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as clover can enhance soil nitrogen levels, benefiting the buttercup. Avoid over-watering to prevent fungal diseases. Regular monitoring is advis
Potential Disturbances: Meadow Buttercup is generally resilient but can be affected by fungal diseases in overly wet conditions. To manage pests naturally, encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control aphid populations. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help repel certain pests due to their strong scent.
Growth Timeline
Recipes Using This Plant
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