Tall Buttercup (Common Buttercup, Meadow Buttercup)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Ranunculales, Family: Ranunculaceae, Genus: Ranunculus, Species: Ranunculus acris · Ranunculaceae (Buttercup family) · Simple, deeply lobed and divided compound-like leaf, deciduous
Species
Ranunculus acris
Leaf Type
Simple, deeply lobed and divided compound-like leaf, deciduous
Family
Ranunculaceae (Buttercup family)
Shape
Palmately divided or lobed, typically with three to five deeply cut segments
Size
Approximately 2-4 inches across, which is typical for basal and lower stem leaves of this species
Margin
Serrate to dentate with irregularly toothed lobe segments
Arrangement
Alternate along the upright stems, with long-stalked basal leaves forming a rosette
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Vibrant medium to dark green on the upper surface, slightly paler underneath, with no distinctive variegation or unusual markings
Venation Pattern
Palmate venation radiating from the base of the leaf segments, prominent pale veins
Texture & Surface
Slightly hairy (pubescent) to smooth, herbaceous and soft texture, matte finish
Description
Ranunculus acris is an erect, perennial herbaceous plant growing up to three feet tall with bright yellow, glossy cup-shaped flowers that appear in late spring and summer. The deeply palmately divided leaves create a lush basal rosette, while upper stem leaves become progressively smaller and less divided. Stems are hollow and often branching near the top.
Key Features
Deeply lobed palmately divided leaves, upright branching stems, and brilliant, glossy yellow flowers with five petals. Distinguished from other buttercups by its tall, hairy, non-creeping stems and acrid sap.
Habitat
Found in damp meadows, pastures, disturbed grounds, roadsides, and open woodlands with moist, well-draining soils and full sun to partial shade
Geographic Range
Native to Europe and temperate Asia, widely naturalized across North America, New Zealand, and parts of Australia
Condition Notes
The leaf appears healthy, vibrant green, and fully expanded, showing no signs of disease, chlorosis, or significant insect damage. Overall health grade: Excellent.
Interesting Facts
The genus name Ranunculus translates from Latin as little frog, likely because many species thrive in wet, marshy habitats where frogs are commonly found. The plant has evolved chemical defenses to deter herbivores from grazing on it.
Medicinal & Uses
Historically used in herbal medicine, though rarely today due to high toxicity. Fresh plant juices are extremely acrid and can cause blistering of the skin. Sometimes planted in cottage gardens for its bright yellow blooms, but often considered an agricultural weed because livestock avoid grazing it due to its bitter taste and toxicity.
Ecological Role
Provides nectar and pollen for various generalist pollinators, including bees, flies, and beetles. Its high toxicity to grazing mammals makes it a persistent weed in pastures, often increasing in overgrazed fields where palatable plants are depleted.
Similar Species
Creeping Buttercup (Ranunculus repens) and Bulbous Buttercup (Ranunculus bulbosus). Creeping buttercup spreads via stolons, and bulbous buttercup has a swollen bulb-like stem base and sepals that reflex downward.
Foraging Tips
Look for damp pastures and roadsides during spring and summer. The striking glossy yellow flowers make it easy to spot against grass, accompanied by characteristic deeply lobed leaves. Wear gloves when handling to avoid skin irritation from sap.
Toxicity Warning
Highly Toxic. All parts of the plant contain protoanemonin, a volatile toxin released when the plant is bruised or chewed. Ingestion or skin contact causes severe irritation, blistering of the mouth and digestive tract, drooling, colic, and diarrhea in livestock and humans.