Bristly Buttercup (Ranunculus hispidus)

from $4.00

The name refers to the plant’s hairy stems and leaves, a distinguishing feature compared to smoother buttercup species.

Like most buttercups, it contains protoanemonin, making it toxic if ingested raw by humans or livestock (but usually avoided by grazing animals).

While foliage isn’t eaten, seeds may be consumed by small mammals and birds, and foliage offers shelter for insects.

Spreads by seed and short rhizomes, forming small colonies in open shade or filtered light.

Size:

The name refers to the plant’s hairy stems and leaves, a distinguishing feature compared to smoother buttercup species.

Like most buttercups, it contains protoanemonin, making it toxic if ingested raw by humans or livestock (but usually avoided by grazing animals).

While foliage isn’t eaten, seeds may be consumed by small mammals and birds, and foliage offers shelter for insects.

Spreads by seed and short rhizomes, forming small colonies in open shade or filtered light.

Bloom: mid- to late spring

Habitats: bluffs where oak trees are often present; wooded slopes; upland woodlands

Lifespan: perennial

Moisture: mesic to dry

Plant type (height): forb (up to 1 foot)

Requirements: dappled sunlight during the spring, followed by light shade in the summer

Soil: rich loamy soil with some decaying leaves