Ranunculus: The Rose-Like Bloom You'll Fall in Love With

Mardi Andrus
May 3
2 min read

If you’ve ever come across a ranunculus bloom, you might have mistaken it for a rose or even a peony. With their delicate, layered petals and wide range of colors, ranunculus are a favorite among florists, and in the top three of my own personal favorites:)

In this post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about ranunculus—from its origins to care tips and how to make the most of it in floral arrangements.

🌸 Botanical Name

Ranunculus is both the common and botanical name, though the most popular variety used in floral design is Ranunculus asiaticus. It belongs to the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae, which includes over 600 species.

🕰️ A Brief History

Ranunculus has a rich history stretching back centuries. Native to the eastern Mediterranean and parts of Asia, it was cultivated as early as the 16th century in Europe. In the Victorian era, ranunculus symbolized charm and attractiveness—giving someone a bouquet meant "I am dazzled by your charms."

Today, ranunculus is cultivated around the world, especially in cooler climates. It's a springtime favorite in gardens and wedding bouquets, cherished for its longevity and whimsical, romantic appearance.

🌿 How to Care for Ranunculus

Whether you're growing ranunculus or enjoying them in a bouquet, these tips will help you get the most out of this elegant flower:

In the garden:

Plant ranunculus corms (bulb-like roots) in fall in mild climates or early spring in colder areas.
They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
Water consistently, but don’t overwater—ranunculus are prone to root rot.

As cut flowers:

Trim the stems at a 45-degree angle before placing them in water.
Remove any leaves below the waterline to prevent bacterial growth.
Change the water every 2–3 days and keep them in a cool spot out of direct sunlight.
With proper care, cut ranunculus can last up to 10 days in a vase!

🎨 Available Colors

Ranunculus come in a stunning variety of colors, making them a dream for designers. You'll find them in:

Creamy whites
Pastel pinks and peaches
Bold reds and oranges
Vibrant yellows
Rich purples and burgundies

Some specialty varieties even feature ombre petals or double blooms for added texture and drama.

💐 How to Use Ranunculus in Floral Arrangements

Ranunculus is a staple in everything from wedding bouquets to everyday arrangements. Here’s how to make the most of them:

Focal or accent: Use ranunculus as a focal flower in smaller arrangements or as a soft accent in larger, lush designs.
Pairing suggestions: Combine with anemones, peonies, roses, lisianthus, and textured greenery like eucalyptus or dusty miller.
Balance the stem: Their heads can be top-heavy, so make sure the stem is supported by sturdier florals or tucked into a floral grid or foam for stability.
Design tip: Group a few ranunculus blooms together in odd numbers for a natural, garden-like look.

Final Thoughts

With its delicate beauty and versatile charm, ranunculus is truly a flower that enhances any arrangement. Whether you’re designing a bridal bouquet, a table centerpiece, or simply enjoying a fresh bunch at home, ranunculus brings texture, color, and romance to the moment. Please leave a comment down below about which flowers you would like to know more about! :)