Ranunculus
Ranunculus asiaticus
Family: Ranunculaceae · Also called Persian Buttercup, Turban Buttercup, Ranunculus africanus, Ranunculus asiaticus var. variegatus, Ranunculus asiaticus var. grandiflorus
Green & Fresh · Spring bloomer
The ranunculus is a flower of pure, mesmerizing geometry. Each bloom contains layers upon layers of tissue-thin petals packed tightly in concentric circles, like a rose made of crepe paper. The color saturation is extraordinary, from ice white through every shade of yellow, orange, pink, and red to deep burgundy. It has become one of the most sought-after flowers in wedding design.
charm, radiance, attractiveness
In the Victorian language of flowers, ranunculus means “You are radiant with charm”. Legend says the ranunculus was named by a young Libyan boy named Ranunculus who sang so beautifully that he collapsed and died, sprouting into this flower. In the Victorian era, ranunculus meant 'I am dazzled by your charms.' The flower was a favorite of Crusaders, who brought it back from the Holy Land.
Did You Know?
A single ranunculus bloom can contain over 100 individual petals. The name means 'little frog' in Latin, because wild species often grow near water, like frogs. The tubers look like tiny dried claws and must be soaked before planting.
Rocky meadows, fields, and hillsides of the eastern Mediterranean and Central Asia
Ranunculus is native to Eastern Mediterranean. It naturally grows in rocky meadows, fields, and hillsides of the eastern mediterranean and central asia.
Scent Profile
“Virtually scentless, ranunculus captivates purely through its extraordinary layered form and saturated colors.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NameRanunculus asiaticus
- FamilyRanunculaceae
- Native ToEastern Mediterranean
- Bloom SeasonSpring
- LifespanPerennial
Cultural Significance
Legend says the ranunculus was named by a young Libyan boy named Ranunculus who sang so beautifully that he collapsed and died, sprouting into this flower. In the Victorian era, ranunculus meant 'I am dazzled by your charms.' The flower was a favorite of Crusaders, who brought it back from the Holy Land.