Florist Guide to Ranunculus Varieties
Ranunculus, commonly known as buttercups or Persian buttercups, are prized in floral design for their lush, layered petals and vibrant colors. This guide provides an overview of popular ranunculus varieties, their characteristics, and tips for use in arrangements, catering to florists seeking to enhance designs.
1. Ranunculus asiaticus (Persian Buttercup)
Description: The most common ranunculus in floral arrangements, known for its tightly packed, rose-like blooms. Flowers range from 2–5 inches in diameter, with delicate, tissue-paper-like petals.
Colors: White, pink, red, yellow, orange, and purple; some varieties feature bi-color or pastel shades.
Bloom Time: Late winter to spring (greenhouse-grown); spring to early summer (outdoor).
Popular Cultivars:
‘Tecolote’: Large, vibrant blooms in bold colors like red and yellow. Ideal for focal points in bouquets.
‘Elegance’: Soft pastel shades with extra petal layers for a fuller look. Perfect for romantic arrangements.
Uses: Excellent for wedding bouquets, centerpieces, and boutonnieres due to its lush appearance and long vase life (7–10 days with proper care).
Care Tips: Cut stems at an angle and place in lukewarm water with floral preservative. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent petal wilting.
2. Ranunculus ‘Cloni’ Series
Description: A hybrid variety bred for larger blooms and sturdier stems, making it a favorite for professional florists. Blooms can reach 6 inches in diameter.
Colors: Rich shades like deep pink, burgundy, and creamy white, often with gradient petal tips.
Bloom Time: Spring, with extended availability through greenhouse cultivation.
Popular Cultivars:
‘Cloni Success Hanoi’: Soft pink with a creamy center, ideal for vintage-style arrangements.
‘Cloni Pon-Pon’: Unique, ruffled petals resembling pom-poms, adding texture to designs.
Uses: Statement flowers in large arrangements or standalone in minimalist vases. Their sturdy stems make them suitable for cascading bouquets.
Care Tips: Remove lower leaves to prevent rot and change water every 2 days to maintain vibrancy.
3. Ranunculus ‘Amandine’ Series
Description: Compact blooms with a high petal count, offering a peony-like appearance. Smaller than ‘Cloni’ but highly versatile.
Colors: Soft peach, blush, champagne, and vibrant red. Some varieties have picotee edges (contrasting petal tips).
Bloom Time: Early to mid-spring.
Popular Cultivars:
‘Amandine Rose’: Delicate pink with a subtle green center, perfect for bridal work.
‘Amandine Marshmallow’: Creamy white with a hint of pink, great for neutral palettes.
Uses: Ideal for boutonnieres, corsages, and small hand-tied bouquets due to their smaller size and delicate look.
Care Tips: Keep in cool conditions (50–60°F) to extend vase life. Avoid overcrowding in arrangements to prevent bruising.
4. Ranunculus ‘Butterfly’ Series
Description: A newer variety with open, single-petal blooms resembling wildflowers. Less dense than traditional ranunculus, offering an airy, whimsical aesthetic.
Colors: Bright hues like coral, fuchsia, and lemon yellow, often with contrasting centers.
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer.
Popular Cultivars:
‘Butterfly Ariadne’: Coral-pink with a yellow center, perfect for garden-style designs.
‘Butterfly Hades’: Deep magenta with a bold presence in mixed arrangements.
Uses: Best for loose, organic bouquets or as filler in rustic designs. Pairs well with greenery like eucalyptus or ferns.
Care Tips: Handle gently, as single-petal blooms are more fragile. Use a light floral preservative to maintain color.
5. Ranunculus ‘Picotee’ Series
Description: Characterized by petals with contrasting edges, giving a painterly effect. Medium-sized blooms with a romantic, vintage appeal.
Colors: White or pink with red, purple, or yellow edges.
Bloom Time: Spring.
Popular Cultivars:
‘Picotee Pink’: Pale pink with darker pink edges, a favorite for wedding work.
‘Picotee Café’: Creamy white with soft brown edges, ideal for autumnal designs.
Uses: Adds a delicate, artistic touch to bouquets and centerpieces. Works well in vintage or bohemian themes.
Care Tips: Trim stems frequently and avoid warm environments to prevent petal browning.
General Tips for Florists
Sourcing: Source ranunculus from reputable growers or wholesalers, as quality affects vase life. Greenhouse-grown varieties are available year-round, while field-grown are seasonal (spring).
Storage: Store at 35–40°F in a cooler with high humidity. Wrap stems in damp paper towels to prevent drying.
Design Considerations: Ranunculus pairs well with soft textures like peonies, roses, or lisianthus. Use their vibrant colors to create focal points or their pastels for subtle elegance.
Customer Advice: Educate clients on care, emphasizing cool storage and regular water changes to maximize longevity.
