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Blisterwort

Ranunculus recurvatus

Last reviewed: July 2026

Blisterwort (Ranunculus recurvatus)
Photo: Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA SCS. 1989. Midwest wetland flora: Field office illustrated guide to plant species. Midwest National Technical Center, Lincoln. Courtesy of USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Blisterwort is toxic to dogs and cats.

Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.

Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

6"–18" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 32 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

South Central Plains

Blisterwort is a low-growing woodland wildflower that produces small yellow buttercup-like flowers from April through June. This shade-tolerant perennial forms modest clumps with deeply lobed leaves and thrives in partially shaded areas with average moisture.

In an HOA neighborhood

Blisterwort takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Very wild, weedy appearance
  • Inconspicuous flowers may not look intentionally planted
  • Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots

Wildlife value

The flowers attract native bees and beetles during the spring blooming period. Seeds may provide food for small birds and woodland creatures.

Common questions

How much sun does Blisterwort need?
Blisterwort grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Blisterwort bloom?
Blisterwort blooms in April, May, and June.
Where is Blisterwort native?
Blisterwort (Ranunculus recurvatus) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 32 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Blisterwort toxic to dogs?
Yes. Blisterwort is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Is Blisterwort toxic to cats?
Yes. Blisterwort is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
What pollinators does Blisterwort attract?
Blisterwort draws bees and beetles.
Is Blisterwort HOA-friendly?
Blisterwort takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

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