Ranunculus is not only the yellow meadow flower, also known as buttercup in this country. The term encompasses a whole genus of flowering plants, some of which differ greatly. Interesting facts about the buttercup family, which can be found almost everywhere in the world.

The clematis also belongs to the buttercup family

How many species of buttercups are there in the world?

The buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) includes a large number of genera, which in turn occur in many different varieties.

The number of genera amounts to 60, which are distributed over approximately 2,500 species. In addition to the meadow plant buttercup or buttercup, numerous flowers are represented that at first glance do not have much in common.

Known species of the buttercup family are:

  • Ranunculus (buttercup)
  • Clematis (clematis)
  • columbine
  • pasqueflower
  • aconite
  • anemone
  • anemone
  • delphinium

Occurrence of buttercup plants

Almost all buttercup plants are characterized by their robustness. They are therefore found all over the world. Ranunculus is not represented only in Antarctica. Most species are native to the northern hemisphere.

The following types of buttercups occur in Germany:

  • Spicy buttercup
  • Burning buttercup
  • Bulbous Ranunculus
  • Poison Ranunculus
  • Creeping buttercup
  • marsh marigold
  • Gold Ranunculus
  • buttercup

Site requirements of buttercup plants

Most buttercup plants found in Central Europe require a slightly damp location. Some, like the buttercup, can even tolerate waterlogging for a short time.

Ranunculus plants do just as well in sunny locations as in partially shaded and shady locations.

All buttercup plants are poisonous to animals

All ranunculus plants contain protoanemonin, which tastes very pungent. All buttercup species are poisonous to animals. Most contain so many toxins that even humans can get poisoned from them.

Most of the species contain poisonous plant sap, which escapes when the flowers are broken off. Even contact with bare skin can cause inflammatory reactions in sensitive people. The flowers should therefore not be picked with bare hands. This is especially true for children.

The poison breaks down when the plant is dried. It is therefore not a big deal if Hahnenklee is contained in the hay for animals.

tips

Most representatives of the buttercup family are herbaceous plants that differ in color and shape of the flowers and leaves. Clematis is an exception as a climbing plant.

Category:

Vegetable garden