Celery-leaved buttercup (Ranunculus sceleratus)

Also known as: Crowfoot Buttercup, Cursed crowfoot, Ditch crowfoot

Another term for Ranunculus sceleratus is "cursed buttercup." This nickname stems from its high levels of the toxic compound protoanemonin, which can cause skin blisters when the leaves are crushed.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Celery-leaved buttercup

Lifespan

Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

15 cm to 51 cm

Spread

10-20 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

5 mm to 1 cm

Flower Color

Yellow Green

Images of Celery-leaved buttercup

Quickly Identify Celery-leaved buttercup

Look for its distinctive highly divided leaves, small yellow flowers with 5 petals, and hollow stem. The plant exudes a bitter, irritating sap when broken.

Scientific Classification of Celery-leaved buttercup

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Ranunculales

Family

Buttercup

Genus

Ranunculus

Species

Celery-leaved buttercup

Planting and Growing of Celery-leaved buttercup

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

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 Celery-leaved buttercup?

Ranunculus sceleratus thrives in moist environments, so ensure each watering session thoroughly moistens the soil, without causing waterlogging. Aim to provide around 500ml per session, allowing for a balance between hydration and oxygen access to the roots.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Celery-leaved buttercup? ›

What should I do if my Celery-leaved buttercup is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Celery-leaved buttercup? ›

How to save an overwatered Celery-leaved buttercup? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Celery-leaved buttercup?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Ranunculus sceleratus thrives in environments offering partial to full sun exposure, ideally receiving 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily. These conditions support robust growth, encouraging healthy leaf development and vibrant blooming.

What is the ideal light condition? ›

How can I ensure these lighting conditions? ›

What benefits does it reap from ideal lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Celery-leaved buttercup?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Ranunculus sceleratus thrives in an ideal temperature range of 60-75°F. These conditions ensure optimal growth and flowering, providing the plant with a stable and nurturing environment. Consistent temperatures within this range support healthy metabolic processes and aid in nutrient uptake.

What Soil is Best for Celery-leaved buttercup?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Clay soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Ranunculus sceleratus thrives in soils with excellent moisture retention. This ensures the plant doesn't dry out during hotter periods, keeping it lush and vibrant. Consistent moisture helps facilitate nutrient uptake, vital for its healthy growth. Well-aerated soil is crucial for Ranunculus sceleratus. This allows the roots to breathe easily and absorb necessary nutrients. Proper aeration helps avoid root rot and promotes a healthy root system, crucial for sustaining vigorous developmental stages. Soils rich in organic matter are ideal for Ranunculus sceleratus' optimal growth, providing essential nutrients. High nutrient content supports robust flowering and foliage, making the plant an eye-catching addition to gardens.

How to Fertilize Celery-leaved buttercup?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Ranunculus sceleratus, fertilizing is critical due to its rapid growth and water-loving nature. Apply liquid fertilizer every two weeks, using around 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon per gallon of water. Use a balanced fertilizer (20-20-20) to provide all essential nutrients. Ensure not to exceed recommended amounts to avoid root burn.

How to Prune Celery-leaved buttercup?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by ensuring that your pruning shears are sharp and clean. Sterilize them with a solution of water and bleach to prevent the spread of any diseases. Clean tools will make precise cuts and reduce the stress on the plant, which is crucial for its recovery and growth. Begin by removing any dead or wilted leaves, making clean cuts near the base. Trim back overgrown stems to maintain the desired shape, but ensure to leave enough leaves to sustain the plant's photosynthesis. Look for any signs of disease and remove affected parts immediately to prevent it from spreading.

How to Propagate Celery-leaved buttercup plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Fill the seed tray with fine potting mix, ensuring it's moist but not waterlogged. Level the surface and gently firm it down to provide a even base for seed sowing.

Spread the seeds evenly over the soil surface, lightly pressing them to ensure contact. Cover them with a very thin layer of soil or vermiculite to maintain moisture without burying them too deep.

Water the seeds gently using a spray bottle to avoid dislodging them. Maintain consistent moisture and place the tray in a warm, bright spot out of direct sunlight to facilitate germination.

How to Repot Celery-leaved buttercup plant?

Repotting frequency: Annually or when root-bound

Signs that Ranunculus sceleratus needs repotting include roots coming out of drainage holes, limited new growth, or the soil drying out too quickly. Spring or early summer are the ideal times because the plant is actively growing, which helps it recover quickly from the stress of repotting.

Choose a pot that's about 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has sufficient drainage holes; this prevents waterlogging which can lead to root rot. Utilizing a slightly larger pot provides room for root expansion, promoting healthy growth and stability.

Opt for a rich, organic mix that retains moisture without becoming soggy. Add peat to enhance soil fertility and structure. The chosen soil mix should mimic the plant's natural habitat, encouraging vibrant growth and flowering.

Toxicity of Celery-leaved buttercup

Is Celery-leaved buttercup toxic to humans?

The Celery-leaved buttercup poses a risk of poisoning to individuals through both consumption and skin contact. The toxicity levels are considered to be quite severe. Every part of this plant contains toxic compounds when it is fresh. However, drying the plant eliminates these harmful substances. Symptoms arising from consumption can include various digestive disturbances. In more extreme cases, it may induce convulsions and dizziness. Consuming large quantities may lead to respiratory failure and impaired circulatory function, which can result in reduced body temperature. Contact with the skin may cause rashes, blisters, and injuries. This particular plant is commonly found in open fields and domestic gardens, increasing the likelihood of human exposure.

Is Celery-leaved buttercup toxic to cat?

The celery-leaved buttercup presents a moderate risk of toxicity to cats. Cats can be exposed to this plant through direct contact or accidental consumption of any of its parts, as the entire plant harbors toxic substances. Symptoms of poisoning in a cat may include various signs of physical distress or illness. To reduce the risks following exposure to or ingestion of the celery-leaved buttercup, prompt veterinary care is essential for the well-being and recovery of the animal.

Is Celery-leaved buttercup toxic to dog?

The celery-leaved buttercup, a certain plant species, presents a moderate toxicity risk to dogs. Canines can experience poisoning from this plant through skin exposure or inadvertent ingestion. The entirety of the plant is toxic, and if a dog either makes contact with or consumes any portion of it, they may display symptoms such as gastrointestinal disturbances, excessive salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea. In more severe instances, more critical symptoms could manifest. The harmful agent responsible for these adverse reactions is protoanemonin. Dog owners must remain vigilant in preventing their pets from coming into contact with or consuming celery-leaved buttercup. If poisoning is suspected, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary assistance to ensure the best possible prognosis for the affected animal.

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.

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