Tightly ruffled, rose-like flowers in brilliant colours, grown from claw-shaped tubers planted in autumn. A florist favourite; the sap can irritate skin and is toxic if eaten.
At a glance
- Plant type: Bulb
- Mature size: 35 cm H × 20 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Persian Buttercup
Botanically, Ranunculus asiaticus is a fast-growing bulb in the Ranunculaceae family. It reaches around 35 cm tall and 20 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Red, yellow, pink, orange, white and purple flowers appear in winter and spring.
Where to grow Persian Buttercup
Persian Buttercup suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Persian Buttercup provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Persian Buttercup is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Persian Buttercup after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Persian Buttercup in the garden
Persian Buttercup earns its place for cut flowers for the vase, pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Persian Buttercup with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. All parts can be toxic if eaten, so keep it away from small children.
Buying Persian Buttercup
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