Ranunculus Flowers

Wedding Flowers For Sale In Many Colours

Name : Ranunculus Flowers
Latin Name : Genus: Ranunculus, (Ranunculus asiaticus)
Ranunculus Description

Ranunculus is a genus comprising of about 400 species of flowering plants belonging to the family Ranunculaceae, which includes the buttercups, spearworts, water crowfoots and the lesser celandine. This genus includes mostly herbaceous perennials native to South America. The name Ranunculus is derived from Late Latin for "little frog," from rana or "frog" and a diminutive ending. This is probably due to the fact that many species are found near water, like frogs. The Ranunculus was first seen by Westerners in the Far East around the thirteenth century, who were captivated by this mild-scented flower with fernlike foliage.

Ranunculus varieties are known for their beautiful flowers, mostly bright yellow or white with a yellow centre. A few varieties have orange or red flowers and occasionally petals may be absent as in the variety R. auricomus. The petals of Ranunculus are often highly lustrous, especially in the yellow varieties. This is due to the fact that they have oil glands at the base of the petals. Buttercups exhibit a breathtakingly beautiful display of flowers in April or May although flowers may be found throughout the summer. Ranunculus plants are very hardy and grow in a wide range of conditions.

Ranunculus flower commonly occurs in the form of multiple layers of delicate, crepe paper-thin petals that resemble an origami masterwork. Ranunculus foliage is grass green and vaguely celery-like, growing in a mound 6 to 12 inches across. Blossoms last up to six weeks. The most common type is the Tecolote strain with mostly fully double flowers, 3 to 6 inches wide and available in bicoloured picotee, gold, pastel mix, pink, red, rose, salmon, sunset orange, white, and yellow. Bloomingdale is the less common strain and is short with pale orange, pink, red, yellow, and white double flowers.

Ranunculuses are cool-weather plants that thrive in well-drained soil and full sun. Propagation is by seeds or rhizome division in the fall and they quickly sprout and provide winter-long greenery. All Ranunculus species are poisonous if ingested fresh by cattle, horses, and other livestock.

Everything about the plump and pretty Ranunculus blossom articulates unbridled beauty, from its tissue-like petals that unfurl in tightly budded whorls to the exotic range of colours in which it is found. Ranunculus is as romantic as roses or peonies, but not nearly as ordinary, these enchanting, dainty blossoms work equally well in tight, formal arrangements as well as individual focal points when placed in a simple, clear vase highlighting their curvy stems. Ranunculuses stay fresh for more than a week in a vase, making them the perfect choice for bridal bouquets or centerpieces. They work equally well in dried form as well.

The variety R. asiaticus is very popular in southern and western gardens. They make terrific container plants everywhere and are the ideal choice for the perennial flower border and flower beds.

Ranunculus Meaning

The ravishing Ranunculus flowers are prized for their ability to communicate a beauty as stunning and welcoming as a gilded statue at the entrance of an ancient city. Ranunculus symbolizes Radiant Charm.

Ranunculous flowers are the perfect way of showing that special someone how amazed you are by their inner and outer beauty. In the language of flowers, a bouquet of Ranunculus signifies the meaning, “I am dazzled by your charms.”

Ranunculus Mythology

Smothered in rich, golden light, the remarkable Ranunculus has long been valued for its assumed alchemical properties. It has been used for medicinal purposes in the past as well.

The flower’s name has a connection with the Frog Prince, a fairy tale character. In this case it is believed that it was an Asian prince in just such a story who gave his name to this flower, which grows naturally in swampy ground. The prince was good-looking and charming and was loved by everyone. He had a beautiful voice but this was his undoing; he adored the open country and sang delightful songs in the presence of nymphs. The shy prince did not have the courage to declare his love to them and this haunted him so much that he died. It is believed that after his death he transformed into the flower with delicate tissue-like petals which bears his name.

In the interior of the Pacific Northwest of the United States the buttercup flower is also known as "Coyote’s eyes". According to legend Coyote was tossing his eyes up in the air and catching them again when Eagle snatched them. Unable to see, the Coyote made eyes from the buttercup flower.