Bulbous Buttercup

Ranunculus bulbosus

Bulbous Buttercup is a perennial broadleaf weed that is also referred to as Yellow Weed, Blister Flower, Gowan, Bulbous Crowfoot and Ranunculus bulbosus.

Identify

Rosette

Lobed

Bulbous Buttercup can be identified by its stems that are hairy at the base and sometimes hairy above, forming a basal rosette of three-parted leaves. The middle lobe is on a stalk; the two lateral lobes are attached at the base on the petiole. The basal and lower stem leaves are on long hairy petioles. Bulbous Buttercup can grow over winter as corms, but Reproduction occurs by seeds. In bloom, Bulbous Buttercup features single, bright-yellow flowers occurring at the ends of stems, consisting of five to seven petals.

Life Cycle

Bulbous Buttercup is a tufted perennial weed that thrives in pastures, hay fields, lawns and landscaping. It can be found throughout much of the continental United States.

Control

Ranunculus bulbosus can typically be prevented by proper grass management practices. Good watering and mowing habits will encourage a thick, lush bed of grass, which will protect your lawn from these broadleaf weeds.