Cursed buttercup
Ranunculus sceleratus · Ranunculaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant cursed buttercup: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Blooming
- May to September
- Mature size
- 20 to 50 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20°C)
- Origin
- Europe, temperate Asia
- Soil type
- Moist, marshy, tolerant
- Exposure
- Sun to partial shade
Care
Watering
The meadow buttercup appreciates moist to wet environments. Keep the soil constantly moist without letting it dry out. In pots, water regularly during the growing season. This plant tolerates well-drained soils and waterlogged banks.
Exposure
Place the meadow buttercup in a sunny to partially shaded location. It thrives in full sun near water sources, but also tolerates partially shaded areas. Avoid overly intense sun exposure in very hot regions.
Soil
This species prefers moist, muddy or peaty soils rich in organic matter. It adapts well to poor soils and even tolerates compacted substrates. Improve drainage in pots with potting soil that retains moisture well.
Fertilizer
A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is generally sufficient. In natural environments or water gardens, no fertilizer is needed. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would stimulate excessive growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune or mow after flowering to promote a compact shape and vigorous regrowth. Remove faded flowers to extend the flowering period. In late winter, cut back to ground level to clean up the clump before active growth resumes.
Diseases and pests
This species is generally robust and rarely prone to diseases. Watch for powdery mildew in humid and warm conditions. Check for whiteflies or spider mites when growing in pots. Good sanitation and proper air circulation prevent most problems.
Did you know?
The name "sceleratus" literally means "criminal" or "scoundrel" in Latin: this buttercup earned its nickname from the acrid and poisonous sap contained in its tissues, which once irritated the skin of growers. In the Middle Ages, some considered this plant malevolent, hence its image as a "bad buttercup" contrasting with the delicate meadow buttercup.
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.