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Ranunculaceae
Sagebrush Buttercup
Ranunculus glaberrimus
Early awakening and hope.
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Genus
- Ranunculus
- Native to
- Western North America
- Bloom season
- Early Spring
- Type
- perennial
- Height
- 2-6 in
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil
- dry, rocky, well-drained
- Water
- low
- Hardiness
- 3-7
- Lifespan
- perennial
Did you know
- It is one of the very first wildflowers to bloom in the sagebrush steppe, often appearing while snow is still on the ground.
- The species name 'glaberrimus' means 'most smooth,' referring to its completely hairless, waxy leaves and stems.
- Its glossy yellow petals contain a specialized reflective layer that gives them an almost lacquered appearance.
- It can bloom as early as February at lower elevations, providing vital early-season pollen for emerging native bees.
- Despite its tiny size, it can live for many years, with its thick root system surviving harsh western winters.
Color meanings
0
hope
1
early joy
2
cheerfulness