Family: Ranunculaceae
Author: Muhl. ex Bigelow
Bibliography: Fl. Boston.: 137 (1814)
Year: 1814
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Ranunculus
Vegetable: False
Observations: SC. & SE. Canada to C. & E. U.S.A.
Description
Early buttercup, scientifically known as Ranunculus fascicularis, is a charming representative of the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. This perennial herbaceous plant is revered for its bright, cheerful yellow blossoms that herald the arrival of spring in various regions of North America. Notable for its vibrant flowers and delicate foliage, the early buttercup is a favorite among wildflower enthusiasts and gardeners alike.
Ranunculus fascicularis thrives across a wide geographic range, from South Central and Southeastern Canada to Central and Eastern parts of the United States. It flourishes in well-drained soils often found in prairies, open woods, and rocky areas, adapting well to different environmental conditions while still preferring a modest level of moisture to support its growth.
The plant itself is relatively modest in stature, typically reaching heights of 6 to 12 inches. Its leaves are deeply dissected and form a basal rosette, creating a lush green carpet that acts as a backdrop to its striking flowers. Each flower boasts five to seven glossy, yellow petals that encircle a cluster of numerous stamens and pistils, making them highly attractive to a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Historical documentation on Ranunculus fascicularis dates back to the early 19th century, with its presence in botanical literature established through works such as “Flora Bostoniensis” (Fl. Boston.: 137, 1814), published by Jacob Bigelow and ascribed to the original observations by Gotthilf Heinrich Ernst Muhlenberg. This early mention underscores the plant’s long-standing recognition and importance within botanical studies.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, early buttercups hold significance in ecological studies and conservation efforts. They contribute to the biodiversity of their habitats, providing food and shelter for various insects. Moreover, they serve as an indicator species, reflecting the health of the ecosystems in which they reside.
In cultivation, Ranunculus fascicularis can be propagated through seeds or division of its clumped roots, known as fascicles, from which its Latin name is derived. Gardeners value it for its early blooming period, which not only adds color to spring landscapes but also supports early seasonal pollinators.
In summary, the early buttercup is a delightful and ecologically valuable plant that remains a key subject of interest within the realms of botany and horticulture. Whether observed in the wild or cultivated in a garden, its radiant flowers and the role it plays in supporting biodiversity remain timeless and treasured attributes.
Common Names
Eng: early buttercup, prairie buttercup, tufted buttercup
Fra: renoncule fasciculée
En: Early buttercup, TUFTED BUTTERCUP, Prairie buttercup
Fr: Renoncule fasciculée
Synonyms
- Ranunculus illinoensis (Greene)
- Ranunculus fascicularis var. typicus (L.D.Benson)
- Ranunculus apricus (Greene)
- Ranunculus fascicularis var. apricus ((Greene) Fernald)
- Ranunculus fascicularis var. deforesti (K.C.Davis)
- Ranunculus trifoliatus (Muhl. ex Steud.)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Connecticut (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Iowa (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Manitoba (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Michigan (native)
- Minnesota (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- Nebraska (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- New York (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Ontario (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- Rhode I. (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Virginia (native)
- Wisconsin (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Apr 10, 2009 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 10, 2009 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Mar 9, 2009 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 22, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Mar 9, 2009 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 10, 2009 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 10, 2009 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 6, 2020 by Kam Beckett (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 10, 2022 by jeanne (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 8, 2015 by EOL − Matt Prickett (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 5, 2015 by EOL − Bill Freiheit (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 8, 2014 by EOL − Aarongunnar (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 10, 2009 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − This image is not copyrighted and may be freely used for any purpose. Please credit the artist, original publication if applicable, and the USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database. The following format is suggested and will be appreciated: Jennifer Anderson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database If you cite (public)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3033336)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:712688-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ranunculus fascicularis Muhl. ex Bigelow)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
