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Ranunculus

How to identify Ranunculus (Ranunculus)

Ranunculus

Ranunculus are characterized by their palmately lobed or divided leaves, often arranged alternately on the stem. The plant can exhibit both annual and perennial growth habits. It's the glossy, cup-shaped flowers that catch the eye, typically appearing in April and showing a wide range of colors from the common yellows to bred varieties in hues of orange, pink, red, and white. These flowers, usually measuring about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in diameter, transition into a cluster of small, dry fruits known as achenes, contributing to its potential to spread in certain environments. Each plant stands roughly 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) high.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Semi-evergreen

Quickly Identify Ranunculus

1

Palmately lobed leaves arranged alternately on stem.

2

Glossy, cup-shaped flowers in various colors, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm).

3

Cluster of small, dry achenes as fruits for dispersal.

4

Yellow thimble-like flowers, shiny and 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) diameter.

5

Lobed leaves with visible veins, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) wide, smooth texture.

Ranunculus
Ranunculus
Ranunculus
Ranunculus
Ranunculus

Detailed Traits of Ranunculus

Leaf Features

Ranunculus leaves are alternate and palmately lobed or divided. The leaves exhibit a lobed structure akin to an open hand, with each lobe radiating from a central point. Typically, the leaves measure about 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) in width. Their texture is generally smooth, and the color ranges from a vibrant green to a deeper hue, depending on the growth stage and environmental conditions. The veins are prominently visible, following the lobes' contours, which aids in photosynthesis and nutrient transport.

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Flower Features

The flowers of ranunculus are predominantly yellow, thimble-like, and often exhibit a shiny, glossy appearance. Although yellow is the most common color, many cultivars come in a variety of hues. The flowers typically bloom around mid-spring and continue into summer. They are approximately 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in diameter, with five petals arranged in a circular pattern. The flowers lack a significant scent but are easily identifiable by their reflective, glossy surfaces.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of ranunculus consists of a compact cluster or head of numerous small, dry fruits known as achenes. Each achene is typically seed-like, with a subtle, often ovoid or somewhat triangular shape, and presents a hard texture that protects the seed inside. Upon maturity, these achenes can exhibit a range of colors from green to brown, depending upon the specific species and age of the fruit. An identifying feature is that the achenes may possess short, stiff hairs or bristles, and some display a hooked or curved appendage that aids in dispersal. Their diminutive size is usually a few millimeters in length, which is roughly less than a quarter-inch, making them visible as a collective structure rather than individual entities.

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Larkspurs vs. Ranunculus : What's The Difference?
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Hellebores vs. Ranunculus : What's The Difference?
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Key Facts About Ranunculus

Attributes of Ranunculus
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Flower Color
White
Yellow
Red
Purple
Orange
Pink
Leaf type
Semi-evergreen
The Toxicity of Ranunculus
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Scientific Classification of Ranunculus

Family
Buttercup
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Genus
Ranunculus (Ranunculus)
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