How to identify Hairy buttercup (Ranunculus sardous)

How to identify Hairy buttercup (Ranunculus sardous)

Hairy buttercup is characterized by its vibrant, yellow flowers which sit atop thin, branching stems that reach up to 12 inches (30 cm) high. The foliage is comprised of three-lobed leaves of medium green color, contrasting with the prominent glossy petals. It possesses a unique, hairy or fibrous texture and appears somewhat glossy. The robust root system consists of dense, fibrous roots supporting the plant. Hairy buttercup typically displays a verdant growth during the cooler months, lying dormant during hotter periods until revived by the return of cooler temperatures.

Lifespan: Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Evergreen, Deciduous

Quickly Identify Hairy buttercup

Vibrant yellow flowers atop thin stems up to 12 inches tall.

Three-lobed medium green leaves with a unique hairy texture.

Radially symmetrical cup-shaped glossy yellow flowers with reflexed sepals.

Fruit consisting of small, dry, closed achenes of 2-3 mm length.

Hairy green to reddish-brown stems, 0.1-0.2 inches thick, growing up to 2 feet tall.

Detailed Traits of Hairy buttercup

Leaf Features

The leaves of hairy buttercup are typically palmately compound or three-lobed at the base, with alternate arrangement along the stem. The margins are coarsely toothed, contributing to a slightly rugged appearance. These leaves generally measure about 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) in length. The texture is somewhat coarse, with a green hue that may vary in intensity. The veins are prominently patterned, aiding in nutrient transport throughout the leaf structure, making this feature distinctive for identification.

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Flower Features

The flowers of hairy buttercup are radially symmetrical and cup-shaped, featuring a glossy yellow hue. Each flower has five petals and is arranged in open panicles. Blooming occurs from April to June. The petals are shiny and vibrant, measuring approximately 0.4-0.6 inches (1-1.5 cm) in length. Yellow sepals, which are reflexed, surround the petals, providing a distinctive contrast. These flowers have no notable scent but are primed for identification by their lustrous appearance and coloration.

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Stem Features

The stems of hairy buttercup are hairy, featuring a green to reddish-brown coloration. They vary in thickness, typically ranging from 0.1 to 0.2 inches (2.5 to 5 mm) in diameter. The stems exhibit a branching pattern that is often irregular and slightly zigzag. The surface is covered with fine, dense hairs, which give it a slightly rough texture. These stems can grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall, providing support for the plant's various parts.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of hairy buttercup is characterized by heads of achenes, each achene being a small, dry, one-seeded fruit that does not open at maturity. These fruits are initially green and exhibit sparse hairs when unripe. As they mature, they retain their closed structure. Each achene is diminutive in size, approximately 2-3 mm (0.08-0.12 inches) in length. The collection of achenes together creates a distinctive textural appearance, forming an important identification feature for the species.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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Hairy buttercup and Their Similar Plants

Meadow buttercup vs. Hairy buttercup: What's The Difference?

Meadow buttercup (Ranunculus acris) is a flowering plant native to Europe. It has gained many nicknames related to its yellow flowers and ubiquity in meadow-like environments. Meadow buttercup is moderately toxic to both humans and livestock.

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This blooming perennial, the greater creeping spearwort or Ranunculus flammula is considered toxic. It grows in damp areas and bears yellow flowers. The Latin name, flammula, is similar to the Latin word flamma, for flame. This may be in reference to the plant’s fiery toxicity.

Azores buttercup vs. Hairy buttercup: What's The Difference?

The plant has palmately lobed leaves and showy yellow flowers.

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Key Facts About Hairy buttercup

Attributes of Hairy buttercup

Lifespan

Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

40 cm

Spread

8 cm to 20 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Blue

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Gold

Fruit Color

Green

The Toxicity of Hairy buttercup

Toxic to Dogs

Toxic to Cats

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Scientific Classification of Hairy buttercup

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Buttercups, poppies and allies

Family

Buttercup

Genus

Ranunculus

Species

Hairy buttercup (Ranunculus sardous)

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Distribution Map of Hairy buttercup

The plant hairy buttercup originates from Mediterranean regions and parts of Eurasia. It has spread as an introduced species across various temperate zones, finding its way into both hemispheres. Its growth is notable in areas encompassing the northern and southern parts of Europe, parts of northern Asia, and sporadically in Australasia. Hairy buttercup's expansion beyond its native range demonstrates its adaptability to diverse climatic conditions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

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A Comprehensive Guide to Hairy buttercup How to Grow and Care for Hairy buttercup