Family: Ranunculaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 550 (1753)
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Ranunculus
Vegetable: False
Observations: W. & C. Medit. to Aegean Is.
Description
Autumn Buttercup (Ranunculus bullatus)
The Autumn Buttercup, scientifically known as Ranunculus bullatus, is a charming and distinctive member of the Ranunculaceae family. Originally described by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus in his landmark work, “Species Plantarum” in 1753, this plant continues to captivate botanists and garden enthusiasts alike with its unique appearance and vibrant blooms.
Description
Ranunculus bullatus is named for its characteristic “bullate” (blistered or puckered) leaves, which are green and glossy with a distinctive crinkled texture. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that are typically seen in the autumn, adding a splash of color to the landscape during a season when many other plants are fading. The flowers are composed of multiple petals that form a delicate, cup-shaped bloom, which not only attracts the eye but also serves as an important resource for pollinators.
Habitat and Distribution
This species is native to a broad region extending from the Western and Central Mediterranean to the Aegean Islands. It thrives in a variety of habitats within this range, often found in meadows, grasslands, and open woodland areas. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can often be seen flourishing in rocky or sandy environments, where its tenacity and adaptability are key to its survival.
Ecological Importance
The Autumn Buttercup plays a crucial role in its ecosystem. As a perennial plant, it provides long-term stability to the soil and serves as a food source for a variety of insects, including bees and butterflies. The flowers bloom late into the season, offering nectar and pollen to pollinators at a time when other floral resources are scarce.
Cultivation and Uses
Due to its ornamental value and attractive foliage, Ranunculus bullatus is sometimes cultivated in gardens. It is relatively low-maintenance and can be grown in pots or garden beds, provided that conditions mimic its natural habitat with well-drained soil and sufficient sunlight. Gardeners often appreciate its resilience and the seasonal interest it adds to their landscapes.
Observations and Conservation
With its native range stretching across a diverse and historically rich region, the Autumn Buttercup is subject to varying environmental conditions and human activities. Conservation efforts are important to ensure that this species remains a vibrant part of its native ecosystems. While not currently listed as threatened, habitat destruction and changes in land use could pose potential risks in the future.
In summary, the Autumn Buttercup (Ranunculus bullatus) is a fascinating and beautiful plant that not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of natural landscapes and gardens but also supports ecological diversity through its interactions with pollinators and other wildlife. Its ability to thrive in different environments within the Mediterranean and Aegean regions underscores its adaptability and enduring presence in the plant world.
Common Names
Eng: autumn buttercup
Deu: herbst-hahnenfuß
En: Autumn buttercup
Fr: Renoncule boursouflée
De: Herbst-Butterblume, Blasiger Hahnenfuß, Herbst-Hahnenfuß
It: Ranuncolo rosulato
Pt: Borboleta-bolhada, Montã-do-outono, Ranúnculo-bolhado
Es: Botón de oro de Portugual, Hierba bellida
Synonyms
- Ranunculus semicalvus (Jord. & Fourr.)
- Ranunculus bullatus subsp. supranudus ((Jord. & Fourr.) Vierh.)
- Ranunculus bullatus var. plantagineus ((Jord. & Fourr.) Maire)
- Ranunculus bullatus var. grandiflorus (DC.)
- Ranunculus bullatus var. parviflorus (DC.)
- Ionosmanthus semicalvus (Jord. & Fourr.)
- Ionosmanthus rhombifolius (Jord. & Fourr.)
- Ionosmanthus plantagineus (Jord. & Fourr.)
- Ranunculus rhombifolius (Jord. & Fourr.)
- Ranunculus supranudus (Jord. & Fourr.)
Distribution
- Algeria (native)
- Baleares (native)
- Corse (native)
- East Aegean Is. (native)
- Greece (native)
- Italy (native)
- Kriti (native)
- Morocco (native)
- Portugal (native)
- Sardegna (native)
- Sicilia (native)
- Spain (native)
- Tunisia (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Oct 20, 2022 by Acosta García Isabel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 24, 2022 by Man_Roman (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 23, 2021 by Lugifa Lugifa (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 20, 2022 by Acosta García Isabel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 10, 2020 by Altieri Michele (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Nov 4, 2022 by Acosta García Isabel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 4, 2022 by Acosta García Isabel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 5, 2006 by Tela Botanica − Patrick LEBOULENGER (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 29, 2009 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 20, 2022 by Acosta García Isabel (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Nov 26, 2022 by Acosta García Isabel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 15, 2021 by Sergio costantini (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 23, 2021 by Lugifa Lugifa (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 7, 2020 by Marisol Trejo (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 13, 2022 by victor ruiz (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Oct 15, 2015 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Oct 15, 2002 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Oct 15, 2010 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)
Taken Nov 15, 2021 by Sergio costantini (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Sep 23, 2019 by MICHEL DUSSERE (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Dec 29, 2019 by Almudena Jiménez (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3922635)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:712370-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ranunculus bullatus L.)
Specifications
Growth
Ph maximum: 7.5
Ph minimum: 7.0
Light: 8
Atmospheric humidity: 4
Soil nutriments: 4
