- Wildlife
- Wildflowers
- Bulbous buttercup
Rosemary Winnall
About
Bulbous buttercup is a native perennial herb, which gets its name from its distinctive perennating organ, a bulb-like swollen underground stem, which is situated just below the soil surface.
How to identify
The flowers are bright yellow and once the flowers are completely open the sepals turn downwards. The lower leaves are divided into three leaflets. The bulbous buttercup has a hairy stem, leaves with 3 well cut lobes and the base of stem has bulb-like swelling.
Where to find it
Nutrient-poor, well-drained soils. Found especially on limestone grassland.
Habitats
When to find it
- March
- April
- May
How can people help
The bulbous buttercup becomes established where fresh soil is exposed. It is intolerant of trampling and this is evident as it is usually absent from footpaths that transverse grassland. The plant prefers sunny areas and cannot tolerate early competition from taller plants. By joining your local Wildlife Trust you can help manage habitat for bulbous buttercups and other native wildflowers.