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Big Buttercup

Ranunculus macranthus

Last reviewed: August 2026

Big Buttercup (Ranunculus macranthus) is a perennial forb native to TX. It blooms in March, April, and May. The flowers draw nectar insects. It reads as an intentional, HOA-friendly planting in the right spot.

Big Buttercup (Ranunculus macranthus)
Photo: Spencer / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

6"–36" H × 6"–6" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May

Native to

TX

Pollinators

nectar insects

Before you buy

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Big Buttercup is a native Texas perennial that produces bright yellow flowers from March through May. This spring wildflower grows 6 to 36 inches tall with a narrow spread, thriving in full sun with moderate water needs.

Growing Big Buttercup

Grow Big Buttercup in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 6 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 6 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Big Buttercup is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Wildlife value

The cheerful yellow blooms attract nectar-seeking insects including bees and beneficial pollinators during the critical early spring period.

Common questions

How much sun does Big Buttercup need?
Big Buttercup grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Big Buttercup bloom?
Big Buttercup blooms in March, April, and May.
Where is Big Buttercup native?
Big Buttercup (Ranunculus macranthus) is native to TX, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Big Buttercup attract?
Big Buttercup draws nectar insects.
Is Big Buttercup HOA-friendly?
Big Buttercup is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Big Buttercup? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz