Adder's tongue spearwort (Ranunculus ophioglossifolius)

Adder's tongue spearwort

Also known as: Snakestongue crowfoot

Adder's tongue spearwort is a herbaceous water plant. The Latin name Ranunculus means 'froglike' in reference to the plant's water-loving nature and ophioglossifolius compares the plant's leaves to those of the Ophioglossum plant. This increasingly rare wildflower is classed as vulnerable and is a protected species under the United Kingdom's Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Scientific classification

Species

Adder's tongue spearwort (Ranunculus ophioglossifolius)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

0 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Adder's tongue spearwort

Distribution of Adder's tongue spearwort

Distribution Map

Adder's tongue spearwort is a plant primarily native to the Mediterranean region, extending to parts of Southwest Asia and Western Europe. It has also been introduced to regions such as the South Pacific. The plant flourishes in a range of habitats within these broad areas. While adder's tongue spearwort has been noted for its presence across several major regions, it remains less commonly encountered in areas distant from its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Care Guide for Adder's tongue spearwort

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Adder's tongue spearwort thrives in damp soil, resembling its wetland origins. It prefers regular watering, ideally twice a week, and exhibits moderate drought resistance. Outdoor humidity during the growing season significantly boosts its vitality.

Fertilize: Prior to planting adder's tongue spearwort, incorporate 1/3 fully decomposed organic fertilizer into the soil. After flowering, apply potassium or phosphorus-rich fertilizer and spray foliage with water-soluble NPK (0:10:11). Continue fertilization until yellowing leaves signal energy storage in the corms for future growth.

Pruning: Adder's tongue spearwort thrives with minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged stems in early to late spring to promote growth. Avoid heavy pruning to prevent stress. Light trimming maintains shape, encourages blooming, and enhances air circulation, reducing disease risk.

Propagation: Adder's tongue spearwort is a small, moisture-loving perennial with lance-shaped leaves and bright yellow flowers. Propagation is mainly through seed sowing, requiring consistent moisture and a well-draining substrate for healthy root development. Careful handling is crucial due to the plant's delicate structure.

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