Meadow buttercups can grow to 90cm and work well in cottage garden planting alongside pulmonarias and campanulas. A common perennial wildflower, meadow buttercup prefers moist, chalky ground and can grow so dense its flowers form a vast yellow blanket which covers the ground.
Its flowers are buttery yellow in colour, and its petals have rounded leaves, divided into three to seven lobes. Blanketing meadows between April and October, its lustrous yellow flowers hold a pool of nectar at their base and are ‘heliotropic’ which means they follow the sun.
If you’re considering adding meadow buttercups to your garden borders? Here are some things to note:
Our 1g seed packets contain approximately 350 meadow buttercup seeds and are ideal for sowing in seedling trays or direct sowing into garden borders. For larger areas, we recommend sowing at a rate of 2g/sqm and increasing to 4g/sqm for densely populated growth.
What are meadow buttercup seeds?
Meadow buttercup seeds are seeds of the Ranunculus acris, a wildflower known for its bright yellow, cup-shaped blooms. These plants are commonly found in meadows and natural grasslands.
How do I grow meadow buttercup seeds?
Sow the seeds directly onto the soil in the autumn or early spring. Press them lightly into the soil but do not cover them, as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
What soil type is best for meadow buttercup plants?
Meadow buttercups thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer well-drained, fertile soil. They can tolerate slightly damp conditions but do not grow well in very dry or waterlogged soils.
Are meadow buttercups good for pollinators?
Yes! Meadow buttercups are an excellent choice for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making them a great addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.
When is the best time to sow meadow buttercup seeds?
The best time to sow meadow buttercup seeds is in the autumn, as the seeds benefit from a period of cold stratification. However, they can also be sown in early spring.
How tall do meadow buttercups grow?
Meadow buttercup plants typically grow to a height of 30–60 cm (12–24 inches), making them ideal for naturalistic garden borders and wildflower meadows.
How long do meadow buttercups take to flower?
Meadow buttercups usually flower in late spring to early summer, typically blooming in their second year after sowing.
Can I grow meadow buttercups in pots?
Yes, you can grow meadow buttercups in pots. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container receives plenty of sunlight.
How do I care for meadow buttercups after planting?
Meadow buttercups are low-maintenance. Water them during prolonged dry spells, and cut back any spent flowers if you wish to control their spread.
Can I mix meadow buttercups with other wildflowers?
Absolutely! Meadow buttercups pair beautifully with other wildflowers like oxeye daisies, red clover, and cornflowers to create diverse and vibrant micro-meadows.