Corn buttercup (Ranunculus arvensis)

Also known as: Scratch bur, Hungerweed, Corn crowfoot

Corn buttercup, an annual plant found in moist environments, thrives particularly well in loamy, clay, and chalky soils. It is known for its toxicity when consumed fresh and is classified as an endangered species. Its nickname, "devil on all sides," comes from the sharp, claw-like spines on its seed heads.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Corn buttercup

Lifespan

Annual, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

15 cm to 60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

7 mm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Corn buttercup

Quickly Identify Corn buttercup

This plant can be identified by its bright yellow, glossy flowers, which are about 1-2 cm in diameter. The leaves are deeply lobed and can be hairy.

Scientific Classification of Corn buttercup

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Ranunculales

Family

Buttercup

Genus

Ranunculus

Species

Corn buttercup

Planting and Growing of Corn buttercup

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Corn buttercup?

Ranunculus arvensis, also known as corn buttercup, prefers moderately moist soil. Water it with around 250ml of water per session. Ensure that the top 1-2 inches of soil are moist but not soggy before stopping to prevent root rot while providing adequate hydration.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Corn buttercup? ›

What should I do if my Corn buttercup is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Corn buttercup? ›

How to save an overwatered Corn buttercup? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Corn buttercup?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours daily

Ranunculus arvensis thrives best under partial to full sun conditions, benefiting from light spaces that provide 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily. This range promotes strong growth and prolific flowering.

What is the ideal lighting condition for Ranunculus arvensis? ›

How can you achieve ideal light conditions for Ranunculus arvensis? ›

What benefits does Ranunculus arvensis derive from ideal light exposure? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Corn buttercup?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 77℉

Ranunculus arvensis thrives best in temperatures ranging between 60°F to 77°F, where metabolic processes occur efficiently. Within this range, the plant experiences optimal enzymatic activity, promoting healthy growth and flower development.

What Soil is Best for Corn buttercup?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Ranunculus arvensis thrives best in well-drained soils that prevent waterlogging. Proper drainage helps maintain necessary moisture levels without suffocating roots, thereby supporting healthy growth and vibrant blooms. The plant prefers soils with moderate fertility levels. It benefits from rich but not overly fertile soils, which provide sufficient nutrients for growth while avoiding overly lush foliage that can hinder flowering. While drainage is crucial, the soil should also retain moisture adequately. This balance promotes consistent water availability to the roots, ensuring optimal hydration and nutrient transport throughout the plant.

How to Fertilize Corn buttercup?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Ranunculus arvensis benefits from a balanced fertilization approach. Use a liquid fertilizer with a 10-10-10 NPK ratio, diluting it to half strength to avoid over-fertilization. For slow-release granules, apply around 20 grams per plant annually. Proper fertilizer amount ensures vibrant foliage and robust blooms.

How to Prune Corn buttercup?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by identifying and removing any dead or spent blooms. Snip them off just above the first set of healthy leaves to encourage new flower growth. Trim back any overgrown branches that disrupt the plant's natural shape. Aim for a balanced look that allows light to penetrate the center of the plant. If any part of the plant appears diseased or infested, it's crucial to remove it immediately. Prune back to healthy tissue, and be sure to sterilize your tools afterward. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Corn buttercup plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Scatter the seeds onto the surface of the seed tray filled with moistened potting mix without burying them too deeply. This ensures they receive enough light for germination.

Regularly mist the surface of the soil to keep it moist but not waterlogged. Consistent moisture is crucial during the seedling stage for healthy root and shoot development.

Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions by slowly increasing their exposure to sunlight and varying temperatures.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Corn buttercup plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Notice that it's time to repot Ranunculus arvensis when it shows signs like reduced growth, roots protruding from the drainage holes, or the soil drying out much faster than usual. Spring and autumn are ideal as the plant isn't in its growth peak, ensuring minimal stress.

When selecting a pot for your Ranunculus arvensis, opt for one that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot. This promotes root growth without overwhelming the plant with excess soil, which can lead to water retention and root rot. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

The best soil for repotting Ranunculus arvensis is a loamy, well-draining mix. This type of soil prevents waterlogging, ensuring the roots receive the oxygen they need. It also retains just enough moisture to keep the plant hydrated without the risk of root rot. The loamy texture is perfect for facilitating root expansion and nutrient absorption.

Toxicity

Ingestion, skin contact

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.