Origin
Ranunculus ficaria L. ssp. bulbifera (Marsden-Jones) Lawalree, commonly known as bulbous buttercup, originated in Europe and Asia. It has now spread to other regions of the world as an invasive species.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as bulbous buttercup, pilewort, butterweed, and fig buttercup due to its small bulb-like structures that grow and divide, creating dense clusters of plants.
Uses
Though it is not commonly used for medicinal or culinary purposes, some native tribes have used the bulb of the plant for treating hemorrhoids, varicose veins, and other skin conditions. The leaves of the plant have also been used as food for livestock and wildlife.
General Appearance
Ranunculus ficaria L. ssp. bulbifera is a low-growing perennial herb that grows up to 15 inches tall. It has erect stems that are smooth and hairless. The leaves are heart-shaped and shiny with a glossy finish. The flowers are bright yellow with 5-9 petals, and it blooms in early spring. The plant produces tiny bulbils, which help it spread quickly and efficiently to cover large areas.
Light Requirements
Ranunculus ficaria L. ssp. bulbifera thrives in partial shade to full sunlight. It requires a minimum of 4 hours of sunlight per day, although it can tolerate more. Too much shade will result in weak stems and small leaves, while too much sun may cause the leaves to wither and yellow.
Temperature Requirements
Ranunculus ficaria L. ssp. bulbifera grows best in cool temperatures, between 10-20°C (50-68°F), although it can tolerate temperatures as high as 30°C (86°F) and as low as -10°C (14°F). It prefers moderate humidity levels and can withstand light frost in the winter.
Soil Requirements
Ranunculus ficaria L. ssp. bulbifera prefers moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. It grows well in loamy, sandy, or clay soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent damage to the bulbs. The plant may benefit from a fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring before the growing season begins.
Cultivation of Ranunculus ficaria L. ssp. bulbifera (Marsden-Jones) Lawalree
Before beginning the cultivation of Ranunculus ficaria L. ssp. bulbifera, ensure that the plant receives sufficient sunlight. It is recommended to plant the bulbs in early spring or autumn. The plant thrives in loamy soil that is well-drained and enriched with organic matter. Till the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches and mix in well-rotted compost before planting. Bulbs should be planted about 4 inches (10 cm) deep and spaced 3-4 inches (7-10 cm) apart.
Watering Needs
Water the newly planted bulbs immediately after planting. Although Ranunculus ficaria L. ssp. bulbifera prefers moist soil, it can still tolerate some drought. Water the plant only when the soil has become dry. Avoid excessive watering as it can lead to fungal infections and root rot.
Fertilization
Like most plants, Ranunculus ficaria L. ssp. bulbifera benefits from fertilization. Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizers before planting, and then apply a balanced fertilizer once the plant starts emerging. For best results, apply the fertilizer at 6-8 week intervals.
Pruning
Pruning Ranunculus ficaria L. ssp. bulbifera is not necessary as the plant doesn't typically become excessively dense or unsightly. However, removing dead leaves and flowers can help the plant focus on producing new growth. After the plant has finished blooming, allow the foliage to yellow and wither naturally before pruning. This stage allows the bulbs to absorb nutrients and energy from the foliage, ensuring that they are prepared for the next growing season.
Propagation of Ranunculus ficaria L. ssp. bulbifera
The plant Ranunculus ficaria L. ssp. bulbifera can be propagated through various methods such as division and bulbils.
Division
Division involves separating the plant into sections and replanting them. This method is useful for mature plants that have a large clump of roots. The best time to divide the plant is during the dormant season in late summer or early autumn. It is essential to dig the plant up carefully, ensuring that the entire root ball is lifted. The roots must be teased apart gently, and the plant divided into smaller sections with a sharp tool. Each section should have at least one shoot and a healthy root system. These sections can then be replanted at the same depth in well-draining soil and watered thoroughly.
Bulbils
Ranunculus ficaria L. ssp. bulbifera produces bulbils on the leaf axils that can be used for propagation. These bulbils develop small roots and can be detached from the parent plant and planted in well-draining soil. The best time to propagate through bulbils is during the dormant season or early spring. It is essential to plant the bulbils at the same level as they were in the parent plant. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Propagation through division and bulbils is an effective way to propagate Ranunculus ficaria L. ssp. bulbifera. The plants produced through these methods will be genetically identical to the parent plant and will have the same characteristics.
Disease Management
Ranunculus ficaria is generally disease-resistant. However, under certain conditions, it can fall prey to a few diseases, such as:
- Root rot: Caused by the Pythium and Phytophthora species, this disease can be controlled by using well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering.
- Mosaic virus: This virus can stunt growth and cause mottled yellow and green leaves. It has no cure, so management practices include removing and destroying infected plants.
Pest Management
Like most plants, Ranunculus ficaria is susceptible to some pests. Here are a few common ones and how to manage them:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be combated by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap.
- Slugs: These pests can be controlled by using slug bait or placing copper tape around the plant.
- Caterpillars: If caterpillars are present, they can be manually removed or treated with Bacillus thuringiensis insecticide.
