Little Bur
Ranunculus testiculatus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
WY
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Ranunculus testiculatus is a small annual wildflower that grows 4-12 inches tall with a compact spread. It produces bright yellow buttercup-like flowers from April through June and thrives in full sun with minimal water requirements. This low-growing plant completes its entire life cycle in one growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Little Bur 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.
- Dies back completely after seed set, leaving bare spots
- Can spread aggressively and may be considered weedy
- Common name 'bur buttercup' suggests spiny seed pods
Wildlife value
This plant provides nectar and pollen for bees and beetles during its spring blooming period. Its early flowering time makes it valuable for pollinators emerging in late spring.
Common questions
- How much sun does Little Bur need?
- Little Bur grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Little Bur bloom?
- Little Bur blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Little Bur native?
- Little Bur (Ranunculus testiculatus) is native to WY, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Little Bur attract?
- Little Bur draws bees and beetles.
- Is Little Bur HOA-friendly?
- Little Bur 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.
Ready to grow Little Bur? 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