Ranunculus repens
A vigorous, perennial wildflower with glossy yellow blooms that thrive in damp soils and meadow edges. Looks lovely paired with common daisy or cuckooflower in a moist, open patch.
🌿 Size: 4–12 inches tall
🌿 Spreading habit: Spreads rapidly by long stolons; can form large patches if not managed
🌿 Sun needs: Full sun, Partial sun
🌿 Pet & Child friendliness: Unsafe* (all buttercups contain mild irritants that can cause skin, stomach upset, or poisoning if eaten)
🌿 Pollen Level: Low*
Care: Prefers moist, heavy, or compacted soils like clay and thrives in damp meadows, lawns, and stream edges - just about anywhere, really. Water during its first year and in prolonged dry spells. To control spread, lift or cut back runners regularly or keep in a pot. Avoid over‑watering established patches. Mulching with compost can improve soil structure and reduce its dominance.
Fun Fact: The old childhood game of holding a buttercup under the chin to “see if you like butter” comes from the flower’s naturally reflective petals.
Individual sensitivities may vary. Please see our FAQ for more details.