Azores buttercup (Ranunculus cortusifolius, Enum. Pl.: 588 (1809))

Family: Ranunculaceae

Author: Willd.

Bibliography: Enum. Pl.: 588 (1809)

Year: 1809

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Ranunculus

Vegetable: False

Observations: Macaronesia

Description

The Azores buttercup, scientifically known as Ranunculus cortusifolius, is a captivating plant species belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. Described by the botanist Willd. in 1809 in his work “Enumeratio Plantarum” (Enum. Pl.: 588), this delightful plant has established itself particularly in the unique biogeographic region of Macaronesia.

Characterized by its vibrant yellow flowers, the Azores buttercup flourishes in the mild and often humid climates of its native habitat. The Azores Archipelago, along with other islands in Macaronesia, provides an ideal environment for this species with its rich volcanic soil, and varied microclimates. This setting allows the plant to propagate and display its striking blooms, which contribute to the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region.

The Azores buttercup displays a robust growth pattern, with leaves that are deeply lobed and somewhat reminiscent of the foliage of buttercups found in mainland regions. These leaves, often a dark green hue, create a striking backdrop to the plant’s bright and cheerful flowers. The flowers themselves are relatively simple but, en masse, create a visually appealing tapestry across meadows and hillsides.

Ecologically, Ranunculus cortusifolius plays a noteworthy role in its native ecosystem. It provides nectar and pollen for various insects, aiding in the pollination process that supports the broader ecological web. Moreover, as a member of the rich and diverse Ranunculaceae family, it shares many characteristics with its relatives, including resilience and adaptability, ensuring its survival in varying conditions.

A study of the Azores buttercup not only offers insights into the specific plant but also contributes to a broader understanding of the unique flora of Macaronesia. Conservation efforts are crucial in this region, as it holds a distinct array of plant species, many of which are endemic and play essential roles in their ecosystems.

In summary, the Azores buttercup is a charming and ecologically significant plant native to the Macaronesia region. Through its vibrant presence and crucial ecological contributions, Ranunculus cortusifolius exemplifies the natural beauty and biodiversity of its habitat, warranting continued study and conservation efforts to preserve its place in the natural world.

Common Names

Eng: azores buttercup
En: Azores buttercup
Fi: Makaronesianleinikki
De: Kanarische Butterblume

Synonyms

• Ranunculus spicatus subsp. cortusifolius ((Willd.) Maire)
• Ranunculus cortusifolius subsp. major ((Lowe) Rivas Mart., Capelo, J.C.Costa, Lousã, Fontinha, R.Jardim & M.Seq.)
• Ranunculus megaphyllus (Steud.)
• Ranunculus cortusifolius var. silvaticus (Webb & Berthel.)
• Ranunculus cortusifolius var. rupestris (Webb & Berthel.)
• Ranunculus cortusifolius var. villosus (Pit.)
• Ranunculus grandifolius var. major (Lowe)
• Ranunculus grandifolius var. minor (Lowe)
• Ranunculus teneriffa (Pers.)
• Ranunculus grandifolius (Lowe)

Distribution

• Azores (native)
• Canary Is. (native)
• Madeira (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Feb 24, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 24, 2018 by Victor Fuentes (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 30, 2020 by Karl Heinz Seidel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 9, 2013 by Gilbert Billard (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 6, 2018 by Kathy Nope (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken May 5, 2021 by Rui Delgado (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 3, 2020 by Anabell (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 29, 2020 by Andrea Schieber (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 26, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 25, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Feb 15, 2017 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken Mar 29, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Marie PORTAS (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 22, 2009 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 26, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 25, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Feb 28, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 24, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 24, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 5, 2021 by Rui Delgado (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 25, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Apr 11, 2017 by bas yves (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Feb 15, 2010 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Feb 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Feb 15, 2007 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/6374399)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:712528-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ranunculus cortusifolius Willd.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth