California Buttercup

(Ranunculus californicus)

California Buttercup (Ranunculus californicus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ranunculus californicus, commonly known as the California buttercup, is a perennial herb of the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. It is native to a variety of habitats in California and Baja California, including grasslands, open woodlands, and coastal bluffs. This species typically grows up to 70 centimeters (2.3 ft) in height and features a basal rosette of leaves with lobed or divided leaflets. The bright yellow flowers, which bloom from February to May, are roughly 1–2 centimeters (0.4–0.8 inches) in diameter and consist of 7 to 22 shiny, teardrop-shaped petals. Each flower is borne atop a long, green, leafless stem, creating a striking display when in bloom.

The California buttercup is valued for its cheerful yellow flowers and its adaptability to a range of garden conditions. It is often used in native plant gardens, wildflower meadows, and as a border plant. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers medium amounts of water, making it relatively easy to maintain. It is adaptable to various soil types, provided they have good drainage. While generally disease-free, it can suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1.5-3 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to grasslands, open woodlands, and coastal bluffs in California and Baja California

Other Names

Common Names: Renoncule De Californie

Scientific Names: Ranunculus californicus , Ranunculus canus , Ranunculus californicus var. californicus , Ranunculus californicus var. cuneatus , Ranunculus californicus var. austromontanus , Ranunculus californicus var. gratus , Ranunculus californicus var. rugulosus , Ranunculus californicus var. crassifolius , Ranunculus californicus var. canescens , Ranunculus dissectus

GBIF Accepted Name: Ranunculus californicus Benth.