Plantainleaf buttercup (Ranunculus alismifolius, “Pl. hartw. 295. 1849 “”alismaefolius“””)

Family: Ranunculaceae

Author: Geyer ex Benth.

Bibliography: “Pl. hartw. 295. 1849 “”alismaefolius“””

Year: 1849

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Ranunculus

Vegetable: False

Observations: SW. British Columbia to NW. Mexico

Description

The plant known as the Plantainleaf buttercup, scientifically named Ranunculus alismifolius, belongs to the family Ranunculaceae. This perennial herb is a remarkable species found in diverse regions stretching southwest from British Columbia down to northwest Mexico. Initially chronicled by Geyer ex Benth., it was officially documented in 1849 under the title “Pl. hartw. 295.” The scientific name alismaefolius reflects the plant’s characteristic broad, plantain-like leaves.

The Plantainleaf buttercup typically inhabits moist environments such as wetlands, meadows, and along stream banks. This environmental preference mirrors the broader habitat tendencies of the Ranunculaceae family, which is known for thriving in cool, moist conditions. The plant is especially noted for its resilience and capacity to proliferate in varied climatic zones within its geographical range.

A distinguishing feature of Ranunculus alismifolius is its glossy, yellow buttercup-like flowers, which provide a splash of color in its native habitats. This distinctive flowering aspect not only enhances the visual appeal of natural landscapes but also plays a vital role in local ecosystems by supporting pollinators including bees and butterflies. Additionally, the plantain-shaped leaves are not just a defining feature but also a practical adaptation that aids the plant in maximizing photosynthesis and water uptake.

In terms of botanical structure, the Plantainleaf buttercup typically emerges with a height that can range from a few inches to over a foot, depending on environmental conditions. The stems are often erect, supporting the radiant, sun-catching flowers that blossom in the spring and early summer.

Understanding the ecological importance and botanical characteristics of Ranunculus alismifolius is crucial for conservation efforts and for appreciating the biodiversity of the regions it inhabits. Whether observed in the wild or studied for academic and horticultural purposes, the Plantainleaf buttercup remains an enduring specimen of interest due to its distinct appearance and adaptive capabilities.

Common Names

Eng: plantainleaf buttercup, water-plantain buttercup, plantain-leaved buttercup
Fra: renoncule à feuilles d’alisme
En: Plantainleaf buttercup, Water-plantain buttercup, Plantain-leaved buttercup
Fr: Renoncule à feuilles d’alisme

Synonyms

• Ranunculus alismifolius var. typicus (L.D.Benson)

Distribution

• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wyoming (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Apr 12, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 26, 2011 by EOL − Ryan Batten (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Oct 16, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 9, 2013 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Habit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. (public)

Taken Nov 22, 1999 by EOL − William R. Hewlett (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 24, 1999 by EOL − Gladys Lucille Smith (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Aug 18, 2005 by EOL − J. E.(Jed) and Bonnie McClellan (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 9, 2013 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Fruit

Taken Sep 7, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Leaf

Taken Apr 12, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3033433)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:712158-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ranunculus alismifolius Geyer ex Benth.)

Specifications

Growth form>: Single Crown

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.5

Ph minimum: 6.0