Invasive Species Council of Manitoba

Tall Buttercup

Ranunculis acris

A perennial that spreads only by seeds, Tall Buttercup contains bitter, irritating oil that is toxic to livestock and other grazing animals. Dried plants are not a threat as the oil evaporates quickly.

Tall Buttercup prefers moist to well drained soil but can survive in coarse, gravelly soil as long as there is enough moisture.

Stems are hairy, hollow and branched in the upper part and can grow 90 cm tall. The leaves are 3-8 cm long, deeply divided in to 3-5 lobes. Flowers are bright yellow, have 5 petals and are on a long stock. The petals have a waxy surface which gives them a shiny appearance.

Each plant can produce 250 seeds which can remain viable for 2-4 years. Seeds are easily carried away by water.

To prevent the spread of tall buttercup only use certified weed-free grass and forage seeds.

Information provided by Alberta Invasive Plant Council

Resources

2011 Rural Municipality Distribution Map

2010 Rural Municipality Distribution Map

Tall Buttercup MWSA 2009 Survey Map

Alberta Invasive Plant Council Fact Sheet

Back to Terrestrial Invasive Species List

Invasive Species Council of Manitoba

Tall Buttercup

Information provided by Alberta Invasive Plant Council

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