Above: Early Buttercup in Nakoma Park in Madison, Wisconsin on April 30, 2020.
Early Buttercup - Ranunculus fascicularis
Early Buttercup it is probably the first yellow buttercup to bloom in spring. It is typically found growing in scattered colonies and is difficult to
distinguished from the similar looking Ranunculus hispidus, which occupies much of the same range. In general, Ranunculus fascicularis has an earlier
bloom time than Ranunculus hispidus, and is more typically found in drier habitats. The early leaves might be mistaken for Ranunculus hispidus (Hispid Buttercup),
but Hispid Buttercup is a much larger plant with larger leaves that are more sharply pointed, and likes moister habitats.
Early Buttercup is partial to full sun to light shade, mesic to dry conditions, and a rather poor soil containing rocky material or sand.
This wildflower is found in rather dry areas where there is sparse ground vegetation.
Note: The photos on this page were taken of Early Buttercup found
on a grass slope in a park. The yellow flower is large compared to the leaves and the plant is low to the ground.
Other names: Tufted Buttercup, Prairie Buttercup.
Above: Early Buttercup in Nakoma Park in Madison, Wisconsin on April 30, 2020.
For more information on Early Buttercup, visit Wikipedia.
Or, visit the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center page on Ranunculus fascicularis.
Early Buttercup
Ranunculus fascicularis
Above: Early Buttercup in Nakoma Park in Madison, Wisconsin (4/26/19).
Above: Early Buttercup in Nakoma Park in Madison, Wisconsin (4/30/20).
Above: "Build Me Up Buttercup" played at the University of Wisconsin football games.
Above: 1913 illustration of Early Buttercup (Ranunculus fascicularis)