Kidney-leaf buttercup
Ranunculus abortivus · Ranunculaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant kidney-leaf buttercup: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Abortive buttercup
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Plant type
- Annual or biennial herb
- Mature size
- 15 to 50 cm tall
- Flowering
- April to June
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Very hardy
- Origin
- North America
Care
Light exposure
Abortive buttercup appreciates light but tolerates semi-shaded situations well. A bright location promotes more generous flowering. It adapts easily as long as it's not in deep shade.
Soil type
This plant grows in various soils, even poor ones, but prefers moist and well-drained soils. It tolerates slightly acidic to neutral soils and establishes itself spontaneously in wet environments, meadows, and streambanks.
Watering
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during growth and flowering. Regular watering during dry periods promotes optimal development. In winter, naturally reduce water supply.
Pruning and deadheading
No pruning is necessary. You can remove faded flowers to prolong flowering and prevent self-seeding if desired. Let the plant dry naturally at the end of the season.
Fertilizer
No fertilizer is essential, even in poor soils. Light compost incorporated at planting time is more than sufficient for this undemanding plant.
Diseases and pests
Abortive buttercup is generally very robust and rarely affected by diseases. Watch for excess standing moisture that could promote rot. Few pests affect it under normal conditions.
Did you know?
Abortive buttercup owes its curious name to the fact that some of its flowers don't fully develop their stamens or fail to produce seeds, hence the epithet 'abortivus.' Despite this characteristic, it reproduces effectively and naturally colonizes wet areas of North America, where it's considered a pioneer species in disturbed habitats.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.