Ranunculus asiaticus Yellow - Persian Buttercup

The solar flowering of the  Asian double yellow Ranunculus, a variety of Ranunculus asiaticus, appears in spring, in the form of a profusion of very round, very full, very double yellow corollas . Bright in flowerbeds, this small perennial but frost-tender bulborous plant allows for the creation of bright flowering pots. Its very coquettish but durable flowers last 3 weeks in a vase. It can be grown in partial shade or in the sun, in moist, humus-rich soil.

The Asian ranunculus, also known as garden ranunculus or oriental ranunculus, is a herbaceous perennial plant with tubers native to the eastern Mediterranean (Greece, Crete), belonging to the buttercup family, just like our Buttercup. The double yellow flowered ranunculus is a spring-flowering variety that is often grown under cover, in floristry, to hasten the production of its magnificent corollas. In May-June, each bulb produces up to 10 large flowers with very full cups. These flowers measure from 3 to 5 cm (1 to 2in) in diameter.

Its deciduous foliage develops in a rosette. The basal leaves measure from 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6in) long. They are pale to dark green, divided into three deep lobes. At maturity, this Asian ranunculus can reach 35 cm (14in) in height. It is a moderately hardy plant that can withstand temperatures down to -10°C (14°F). Its root is perennial and consists of several small elongated tubers, grouped together in a vascular bundle, sometimes called "claw".

The Asian ranunculus can be cultivated in flowerbeds, borders, rockeries, and even in pots on a terrace. It is a very ornamental plant that is also used in bouquets for its excellent durability. It can be combined in floral arrangements with old roses that resemble them so much, or even modern roses with perfect forms, in shades ranging from white to garnet, and all shades of orange. It pairs very well with blue irises. By lifting the tubers in autumn, before the frosts, this plant can be grown like a gladiolus.