Ranunculus
Ranunculus asiaticus
Ranunculus, or Persian buttercup, is a florist-favourite spring flower with layers of delicate, crepe-paper petals in jewel-bright colours that look almost too perfect to be real. The corms are planted in autumn for greenhouse flowers in March, or in late February–March for outdoor flowering from May to July. Soak the claw-like corms in water for 3–4 hours before planting 5cm deep in very well-drained soil in full sun. Space 15cm apart. Ranunculus hates wet and will rot in heavy soil — raised beds or containers are ideal. The long stems make them outstanding cut flowers; harvest when buds are showing colour but not fully open for the longest vase life.
Plan where to grow Ranunculus using our vegetable garden planner.
When to Plant Ranunculus
Plant ranunculus in February, March, April. It flowers from May to July.
Time to Flower Ranunculus
Expect flowers approximately 3 months after planting.
Companion Plants for Ranunculus
- Tulip
Both are spring cut flowers for a sunny, well-drained bed and flower around the same time.
- Anemone
Traditional florists' partners: both are grown from soaked corms in the same conditions and flower together.
- Allium (Ornamental)
Both like sun and good drainage, and alliums carry the display on as ranunculus finish.
Expected Yield
Ten corms provide a generous spring cutting patch display.
Pruning Ranunculus
Cut or deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage more buds. After flowering, let the foliage die back, then lift the corms and store them dry if your soil stays wet in winter.
Common Problems with Ranunculus
Corms rot before sprouting
Soak for only 3–4 hours, not overnight. Plant in very free-draining soil or gritty compost in pots. Never plant in heavy clay.
Flowers are small and few
Small corms produce smaller displays. Buy jumbo-sized corms for the best results, and feed with a high-potash liquid fertiliser weekly during flowering.
Stems break in wind or rain
Ranunculus stems are brittle. Plant in a sheltered spot or support with pea netting. Harvest before rain if possible.
Ranunculus: common questions
When should I plant ranunculus in the UK?
Plant ranunculus from February to April.
How far apart should I plant ranunculus?
Space ranunculus about 15cm apart. It grows to around 40cm tall.
When does ranunculus flower?
Ranunculus usually flowers from May to July in the UK.
Does ranunculus come back every year?
Yes. Ranunculus is a perennial and comes back every year, dying back or slowing down over winter and regrowing in spring.
When should I prune ranunculus?
Cut or deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage more buds. After flowering, let the foliage die back, then lift the corms and store them dry if your soil stays wet in winter.
What grows well with ranunculus?
Good companions for ranunculus include Tulip, Anemone and Allium (Ornamental). See the companion plants section above for why each one helps.
Is ranunculus frost hardy?
Only partly. Ranunculus is half-hardy: it copes with cold but not frost, so plant it out after the last frost (usually mid to late May) and protect it if frost is forecast.
Plan your ranunculus in the allotment planner
Drag and drop plants onto your plot and get personalised sowing reminders.
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