The ranunculus genus refers to a large, diverse group of flowers, many of which are ‘designer blooms’. Ranunculus are cold-hardy and are often referred to as buttercups, with many species of endemic to alpine regions. On the other hand, other types of ranunculus are typically sold in high-end flower shops.
These diverse blossoms will add something unique and are easy to grow in your garden. At the same time, they serve you just as well in pots as they do in grand bouquets, and centrepieces at weddings.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the beautiful, colourful and diverse ranunculus varieties.
Ranunculus Ficara
These flowers are typically found growing alongside streams or in grassy meadows or woodland areas. This perennial wildflower is common in North America, where they grow very close to the ground, but are also cultivated within landscapes. However, these flowers are as beautiful as they are invasive, which has made them unlawful in some areas.
Ranunculus Asiaticus
The most commonly found and grown ranunculus tuber is the asiaticus. This type of ranunculus often grows in multi-coloured mixes and is available in lovely bright shades of red, orange, yellow and pink.
Ranunculus Hanoi
Ranunculus Hanoi flowers are extremely popular for weddings. These ranunculus varieties are available in delicate blush tones akin to marshmallows and cotton candy. As a result, their ethereal presence is highly sought after at nuptials around the world.
Ranunculus Accolade
The ranunculus accolade is celebrated for its colours that are reminiscent of warm sunsets. Furthermore, they last for a long time when kept in cool spots and sheltered from the sun. As a result, they’re a popular choice for vases and containers.
Ranunculus Cloni Dark Orange
Also known simply as the ranunculus cloni, these blossoms resemble English roses. They boast several layers of petals and giant flower heads. Due to their sheer size and vibrant colours, these orange flowers can brighten up anyone’s day. They are propagated under very strict laboratory conditions to ensure consistency and quality with every single bulb.
Ranunculus Alpestris
The ranunculus alpestris is perfect for gardeners in alpine regions. These plants are tough and hardy and grow to just two inches in height. They boast bright, white flowers that bloom abundantly in the springtime.
Ranunculus Rhone Pink
Rhone pinks are another of the ranunculus varieties that are very popular at weddings. These blossoms are also available in dreamy shades of white, cream and light pink, making for the perfect addition to any bouquet or table setting.
Ranunculus Nivalis
This stout little flower is also referred to as a ‘snow buttercup’. This type of ranunculus grows in Alaska and all across other arctic regions. These flowers boast overlapping gold petals and bright green centres and seem to appear overnight, as soon as the snow starts to melt.
Ranunculus Amandine Rose
The Ranunculus Amandine Rose is a flower that is in high demand by florists. It is one of Holland’s most successful export flowers, and for good reason. This cultivar features generous ruffled layers of rich, pink petals. The plant grows superbly in the cooler months of spring and can add a dazzling dash of colour to any garden, bouquet or pot.
Ranunculus Acris
Ranunculus Acris is the perfect variety of ranunculus plant for beginner gardeners. They are very hardy plants and grow as a wildflower in boggy areas. They can flourish in almost any kind of soil and grow a bit like a weed – only much prettier!
Ranunculus Cortusifolius
The ranunculus cortusifolius is a buttercup flower from the Canary Islands that yields large, golden flowers. This type of ranunculus resembles tropical hibiscus plants and grows as perennials that prosper in bright, shaded areas. This plant can bloom for three full months during spring but goes dormant in summer.
Ranunculus Lyallii
Native to New Zealand, the ranunculus lyallii is one of the tallest known species of ranunculus plants. It boasts round leaves that look similar to lily pads and features bright white flowers. In their native habitat, these plants flourish when they enjoy sharp drainage in rocky soils. They grow in open sites and rocky crevices that receive full sun.
Ranunculus Purple Picotee
The ranunculus purple picotee is also known as a ‘florist’s delight’. These lavish flowers complement the likes of peonies, larkspurs and lisianthus blossoms when paired with them in bouquets. The fluffy white flowers have distinct purpled edges that add a bit of a spark to floral arrangements. They are excellent for filling in gaps as well. These plants can be grown as annuals from their bulbs and will flourish as long as they can enjoy plenty of drainage and moisture.
Ranunculus aconitifolius
These types of ranunculus thrive best when they are in dappled shade and moist conditions. They grow as ephemeral spring plants, which means that they become dormant at the first sign of summer heat. The flowers can be quite easily identified as they have delicate white petals with golden yellow centres.
Ranunculus Tango
Ranunculus Tango plants grow in clusters and the flowers that they produce give red roses a run for their money. This ranunculus varieties’ blossoms are made up of bright, ruby red petals and the flowers are considered to be much easier to grow than roses. They also don’t require any pesticides, which is excellent news for gardeners.
Ranunculus Venere
The ranunculus venere is a unique plant in that it is not quite pink, nor is it coral but it is certainly somewhere in between. The shade of the blossoms is best described as a ‘perfect sunset moment’ and can add a lovely warm touch to gardens and bouquets regardless of where they are placed.
A Flower For Every Occasion
Ranunculus flowers are truly unique and diverse. Considering how easy these plants are to grow, they are well worth the effort. The flowers that each type of ranunculus produces are colourful and perfect for almost any occasion, whether that be a wedding, a birthday or simply just because!
Once you’ve decided which type of ranunculus you’d like to grow, read our in-depth guide on how to plant ranunculus bulbs.