Woodland Buttercup

(Ranunculus polyanthemos subsp. nemorosus)

Woodland Buttercup (Ranunculus polyanthemos subsp. nemorosus)

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Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Climate Requirements

Precipitation 47" - 56"
High Temp. 67°F - 78°F
Low Temp. 22°F - 35°F
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Summary

Ranunculus polyanthemos subsp. nemorosus, commonly known as Woodland Buttercup, Meadow Buttercup, or Many-flowered Buttercup, is a perennial herb that thrives in the dappled sunlight of forest clearings and the moist conditions of meadows across Europe and Western Asia. It is particularly adapted to clay soils, which are often rich in nutrients and retain moisture well. This species exhibits a moderate growth rate, reaching a height and width of approximately 0.5-1 feet (0.15-0.3 meters). The plant is characterized by its glossy, green foliage and vibrant yellow flowers that are quite showy, blooming profusely in the spring and continuing into summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

The Many-flowered Buttercup is valued for its cheerful, bright flowers and its ability to naturalize in suitable conditions, creating swathes of golden yellow in the landscape. It is often used in wildflower meadows, woodland gardens, and as a component of naturalistic plantings. While it prefers full sun or part shade, it is adaptable and can tolerate a range of light conditions. It requires medium amounts of water and thrives in medium draining clay or loam soils. Gardeners should be aware that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation upon contact. Despite its beauty, it should be handled with care and not planted where it might be accessed by pets or children.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: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Thrives in the dappled sunlight of forest clearings and moist conditions of meadows across Europe and Western Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Meadow Buttercup, Many-flowered Buttercup

Scientific Names: Ranunculus polyanthemos subsp. nemorosus, Ranunculastrum mixtum, Ranunculastrum nemorosum, Ranunculus acris, Ranunculus acris, Ranunculus alpicola, Ranunculus amansii, Ranunculus astrantiifolius, Ranunculus aureus

GBIF Accepted Name: Ranunculus polyanthemos subsp. nemorosus