Bulbous Buttercup

Ranunculus bulbosus

General - Bulbous Buttercup is a perennial weed that spreads by seed.

If left to grow it can reach up to 45cm, however it can just as easily adapt to grow in closely mown turf or lawns.

It takes its name from the large bulbous corm (a large swollen underground stem).

The plant dies back in the summer heat but the corm survives the winter months.

Leaves - The leaves of this weed are very similar to those of Creeping Buttercup but are generally smaller.

Flowers - Again similar to Creeping Buttercup but those of Bulbous Buttercup are smaller. The plant flowers between March and June.

Roots - Bulbous Buttercup has a bulbous root system with fibrous roots.

Habitat - This weed prefers free draining, light soils. Maintain sward density to prevent weeds establishing and becoming a problem.

Cultural Control - Bulbous Buttercup can be hand weeded, taking care to remove the whole plant.

Chemical Control - Bulbous Buttercup is more resistant to chemicals than Creeping Buttercup. Choose a selective weed killer that contains 2,4-D and (mecoprop-p or dicamba) or a weed killer that contains fluroxypyr may also prove effective against Bulbous Buttercup.