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AquaticHerbaceous Perennial

Ranunculus fluitans
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

river water crowfoot

A marginal aquatic perennial with submerged leaves only, in long, narrow dark green segments 30cm long. The long, slender stems with up to two flower stems bear white, daisy-like flowers, 2-3cm across with 6-8 overlapping petals, in early summer

Other common names
long-leaved water crowfoot
crafanc hirddail
Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer White Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Ranunculaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Submerged, Trailing
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten, skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin irritant - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus

Ranunculus can be annuals, biennials, evergreen or herbaceous perennials, with rhizomes, tubers or spreading by runners. The leaves are variable but often palmately lobed or dissected and the flowers usually bowl-shaped

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in muddy pool margins in water 15-60cm deep, in full sun. Will grow in slow or fast moving fresh water in rivers or streams. See pond plants for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown as soon as ripe

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildlife gardens
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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