Longbeak Buttercup

(Ranunculus longirostris)

Longbeak Buttercup (Ranunculus longirostris)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 12" - 44"
High Temp. 64°F - 86°F
Low Temp. -11°F - 21°F

Summary

Ranunculus longirostris, commonly known as the Longbeak Buttercup, is an aquatic perennial herb native to freshwater habitats such as ponds, lakes, ditches, and slow-moving streams across Canada and the United States, though it is less common in the Southeastern US. It typically grows submerged or partially floating in water. The Longbeak Buttercup is characterized by its elongated snout-like beak, which is a distinctive feature of the fruit. It produces small, yellow flowers that are not particularly showy, blooming from late spring to mid-summer. The plant’s foliage is usually finely dissected and submerged, with floating leaves being less divided.

The Longbeak Buttercup is valued for its role in aquatic and riparian ecosystems, providing habitat and food for various wildlife species. It is not commonly used in traditional garden settings due to its aquatic nature but can be incorporated into water gardens or naturalized pond edges. It requires full sun to part shade. While not a common garden plant, it can be a unique addition to water features. Care should be taken to manage its growth as it can spread in favorable conditions, potentially spreading. CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Drainage: Standing

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Freshwater habitats such as ponds, lakes, ditches, and slow-moving streams

Other Names

Common Names: Longbeak buttercup, Water crowfoot, Long-Beak Water-Crowfoot, Curly White Water-Crowfoot

Scientific Names: Ranunculus longirostris, Batrachium circinatum subsp. subrigidum, Batrachium circinatum var. subrigidum, Batrachium longirostre, Batrachium longirostris, Batrachium subrigidum, Batrachium usneoides, Ranunculus amphibius, Ranunculus aquatilis var. longirostris

GBIF Accepted Name: Ranunculus longirostris