Western Buttercup

Ranunculus occidentalis

perennial herbView on Calscape

Care

Sun

full sun, part shade

Water

moderate

Size

0–2ft tall

Bloom

Jan-Dec

Container

Friendly

Flowers

Prized

Native Range

Grasslands and wetlands throughout California from sea level to 8000 ft elevation, extending to British Columbia and east to the Rocky Mountains.

Care Guide

Planting

Plant your western buttercup in full sun to part shade during winter or early spring to take advantage of the natural blooming season. Space plants according to the mature height range of 0.3 to 2 feet, depending on variety. The Calscape data doesn't specify soil requirements, so prepare a well-draining planting area and water in after planting.

After Planting

Water moderately during the first growing season - roughly weekly during dry spells - then reduce frequency as the plant establishes. Western buttercup flowers from winter through spring, so expect modest growth during warmer months; the plant's dormancy pattern isn't fully documented in available care data. Note that handling or damaging the plant releases protoanemonin, a compound that can irritate skin, so wear gloves during pruning or deadheading if desired.

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Endangered & Threatened Species Supported

Rock PtarmiganLagopus muta

California state-listed; limited range in Sierra Nevada

CA: Endangered

California ringlet butterflyCoenonympha california

California state threatened species

CA: Threatened

Wildlife Supported