Ranunculus lanuginosus
Ranunculus lanuginosus · Ranunculaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant ranunculus lanuginosus: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Type
- Perennial herbaceous plant
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Blooming
- Spring to early summer (April-June)
- Adult size
- 30-60 cm in height
- Hardiness
- Hardy, tolerates mountain cold
- Origin
- Mountain regions of central and southern Europe
- Preferred soil
- Moist, well-drained, rich in organic matter
Care
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist, especially during the spring growth period. Avoid water stagnation in winter, which could rot the rhizomes. A cool, slightly moist soil is ideal; water moderately in summer after flowering.
Light exposure
Place your woolly buttercup in part shade or semi-sunny conditions. A location that is too hot and dry will slow its growth. Mountain zones at mid-altitude with diffuse light suit it particularly well.
Pruning and cleanup
Remove spent flowers to extend the blooming period. In late autumn, cut back dead foliage at soil level. This plant requires no structural pruning.
Soil preparation
Prepare a rich, permeable substrate that is slightly acidic to neutral. Incorporate well-decomposed compost or organic matter. Good drainage is crucial to prevent rot during wet periods.
Fertilizing
A spring application of well-decomposed compost is usually sufficient. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that would encourage foliage at the expense of flowers. Moderate fertilization is recommended.
Health and prevention
Rhizome rot can occur in overly wet or poorly drained soil. Watch for powdery mildew in dry conditions. Space plants well to ensure good air circulation and prevent fungal diseases.
Did you know?
The Ranunculus lanuginosus owes its epithet 'lanuginosus' to its finely velvety foliage, covered in soft silky hairs that give it a silvery appearance. This particular botanical adaptation to cold mountain environments helps the plant reduce evaporation and capture more diffuse light at altitude.
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.