Ranunculus aquatilis (White Water Crowfoot)

Ranunculus aquatilis (White Water Crowfoot) is an evergreen, submerged aquatic perennial with alternate fan-shaped, divided underwater leaves and sometimes palmately lobed floating leaves. Blooming for about 2-3 months in mid-spring to late summer, this aquatic plant boasts a profusion of solitary white flowers, 2 in. across (5 cm), with yellow centers. Held just above the surface of the water, the flowers are cross-pollinated by bees, flies, and beetles. They give way to flattened seeds that can spread to new locations by water currents or by the wind. This plant can also spread through rhizomes and form dense mats at the surface of the water. Native to North America and Eurasia, White Water Crowfoot is useful as an oxygenator in water gardens and ponds, and as a shelter for small fishes and aquatic invertebrates. Cold-hardy and robust, White Water Crowfoot requires little maintenance once established. It is a charming decorative aquatic plant for ponds and water gardens that is also attractive to wildlife. The foliage and seeds are eaten by swans, ducks, muskrats, and turtles.

• Grows up to 2 in. tall (5 cm) and 12-24 in. wide (30-60 cm).
• Performs best in full sun as a submerged aquatic in muddy pool margins in water 6-24 in. deep (15-60 cm). Will grow in still or slow-moving water.
• A fine choice for water gardens or ponds.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for powdery mildew.
• Cut back after flowering.
• Propagate by seed sown as soon as ripe. Can be propagated from stem cuttings.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses
• Native to North America and Eurasia.