Ranunculus asiaticus, the Persian buttercup, is a species of buttercup native to the eastern Mediterranean region, southwestern Asia, southeastern Europe, and northeastern Africa. It has been cultivated for centuries, with historical records indicating its use in ancient Greece and Rome. It is a herbaceous perennial plant growing up to 45 cm tall, with simple or branched stems. It is a protected species in some jurisdictions, including Israel and Palestine.
Characteristics
- Flowers: The flowers are the highlight, being large, showy, and often fully double with numerous layers of petals. They can come in a wide variety of colors including white, pink, red, orange, yellow, and even some rarer shades like violet and bicolors. The center of the flower typically has a cluster of golden stamens.
- Leaves: The plant features fine, parsley-like foliage that grows in a compact, mounded form. The leaves give the plant give the plant an attractive look even when not in bloom.
- Height: Stems can grow between 12-20 inches tall, making them ideal for garden displays and cut flower arrangements.
- Bloom Time: Ranunculus asiaticus blooms in late spring to early summer, with the possibility of reblooming if conditions are favorable.
- Growth Habit: These plants are perennial in their native environments but are often treated as annuals or biennials in cultivation due to their sensitivity to cold and wet conditions.
Cultivation
- Soil: They prefer well-draining, rich, loamy soil. Adding compost or well-rotted manure can improve soil for optimal growth.
- Planting: Persian Buttercups are typically grown from tubers (corms). Plant these in the fall in climates with mild winters, or in early spring where winters are harsh. Plant the tubers about 2 inches deep with the claws (small growths on the tuber) facing downward. Space tubers about 4 to 6 inches apart to allow for growth.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once established, they can handle some drought but perform best with regular watering. Avoid overhead watering to prevent flower rot, especially in humid conditions.
- Light: Full sun is ideal, although they can tolerate partial shade, particularly in hotter climates to prevent the flowers from scorching.
- Temperature: They do well in temperatures above 50°F (10°C). Frost can damage or kill the tuber, so in colder climates, they might need protection or be grown as an annual.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time, and then a liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season to encourage blooming.
- Pests and Diseases: Watch out for aphids, slugs, and snails. They can also be susceptible to fungal diseases if the soil is too wet or if air circulation is poor. Good garden hygiene and spacing can help prevent these issues.
- Overwintering: In areas where the ground freezes, lift the tubers after the foliage dies back, dry them, and store them in a cool, dry place until it’s time to replant in spring.
- Propagation: Tubers can be divided when they are dormant. Small offsets or new tubers can be separated from the parent and grown on.