Ranunculus, commonly known as the Persian buttercup (Ranunculus asiaticus), are highly sought-after flowers. Their popularity comes from their exquisitely layered appearance, featuring multiple, delicate petals densely packed to create a lush, rose- or peony-like form. Available in a wide spectrum of vibrant colors, they are a favorite among florists and home gardeners. Though a tuberous perennial, ranunculus are often grown as a cool-season annual due to their preference for mild temperatures. Sourcing ranunculus is a seasonal decision.
Choosing Your Ranunculus Form
Corms
The most common form for planting is the corm, a small, shriveled, claw-like structure representing the dormant plant. Corms offer the greatest variety of cultivars and are the most economical option for gardeners producing cut flowers. They require advance planning, as they must be planted well ahead of the bloom time.
Potted Plants
Potted plants are generally purchased already established and often in bud or full bloom during the early spring. These are ideal for those who want instant garden color without the effort of starting from a corm. They usually offer a smaller selection of unique varieties and are typically treated as temporary seasonal additions.
Cut Flowers
Cut flowers are the choice for immediate display, providing a long-lasting, showy bouquet for home decor or special events. This option provides instant gratification and access to professionally grown, premium-grade blooms with long, straight stems. This bypasses the entire planting and growing process.
Retail Sources for Ranunculus
Sourcing ranunculus corms requires pre-planning, especially for specialized varieties. High-quality corms are primarily found through specialty online suppliers and seed catalogs. Vendors typically open for orders in the late summer or early fall, which is the correct time to purchase corms for fall planting or pre-sprouting. This ensures access to distinct cultivars, such as the ‘Cloni’ or ‘Elegance’ lines.
Local nurseries and larger garden centers serve as a secondary source for corms and the main retail outlet for potted plants. They generally stock corms in the fall and again in late winter or early spring, though the selection is often limited. Potted plants, ready for immediate placement, are predominantly available in the spring, coinciding with the peak selling season.
For cut flowers, purchasing avenues shift toward florists and local farmer’s markets. Florists offer arrangements using ranunculus during their natural bloom window of late winter through spring. Farmer’s markets are a prime location to buy locally grown cut stems, often offering superior freshness and unique colors directly from the grower.
Essential Post-Purchase Care
Caring for Corms
Corms require hydration to break dormancy. Soak the dry, shriveled corms in room-temperature water for three to four hours until they plump up. Plant the corms with the claw-like points facing downward, about two inches deep, in well-draining soil. Protect the planting area from hard freezes using mulch or frost cloth.
Caring for Potted Plants
Potted ranunculus purchased in bloom need careful acclimatization and watering. Place the plants in full sun, but note they will decline once temperatures consistently exceed 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged, as the corms are highly susceptible to rot. If transplanting, maintain the current soil level, ensuring the crown is not buried.
Caring for Cut Flowers
Cut ranunculus flowers have a vase life of five to ten days. Longevity is maximized through simple care steps:
- Trim the hollow stems at a slight angle using a clean, sharp knife to enhance water uptake.
- Remove all foliage that would sit below the water line to prevent bacterial growth.
- Change the water every two days and refresh the stem cut to prolong the bloom.
- Keep the vase out of direct sunlight and away from ripening fruit, which releases ethylene gas.