Ranunculus acris Multiplex - Meadow Buttercup

Ranunculus acris 'Multiplex', also known as Meadow Buttercup, is an improved and less exuberant version of the famous buttercup that is widespread in our countryside. This perennial, which is very easy to grow, offers beautiful double flowers in pompons of dazzling golden yellow from spring to mid-summer. This variety is simply superb when paired with blue flowers. It thrives in almost all exposures, in fertile and moist soils, even clayey ones.

Ranunculus acris, also known as Double Meadow Buttercup, belongs to the family of Ranunculaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia Minor and has been introduced to many regions of the world. 'Multiplex' distinguishes itself with its very double flowers, slightly larger than those of the species, and its greatly reduced propensity to be invasive. It is a charming deciduous perennial with a tuberous rootstock, fast-growing and forming a clump 30 to 60cm (12 to 24in) in height and spreading over 30cm (12in). The flowering takes place from May to July, in the form of rounded double flowers, carried by upright and branched stems. The plant's leaves are either basal, arranged in a rosette, or cauline, attached to the stems. The leaves are deeply incised and have dentate margins. The lamina is often stained with red at the base.

'Multiplex' Ranunculus is truly easy to grow in ordinary soil and has good hardiness (-20°C (1°F)). It clearly prefers moist, even marshy soils, but also adapts easily to any good soil that is not too dry. Plant it in a country-style flower bed, alongside cornflowers, agastaches or blue forget-me-nots, which have complementary colors. It is also a good perennial for moist banks, even in partial shade, next to Rodgersias pinnata 'Chocolate Wings' or Actaea simplex 'Brunette' with purple foliage.