littleleaf buttercup

Ranunculus abortivus L.

Littleleaf buttercup changes its appearance as the eye follows a stem upward. Near the ground, kidney-shaped leaves make a low rosette; above them, much narrower leaves accompany an airy, branching flower stalk. The small blossoms have green centers, so their yellow petals can be less conspicuous than the foliage. NC State Common Wetland Plants Guide: Ranunculus abortivus

Botanical name

Kew accepts Ranunculus abortivus at species rank. Kew Plants of the World Online: Ranunculus abortivus

Recognizing the plant

Flowering stems stand about 10–60 cm tall and are generally smooth. The basal blades have heart-shaped bases and scalloped edges, and remain present while the plant blooms. Each flower has five yellow petals only about 1.5–3.5 mm long, often shorter than the sepals behind them. After flowering, numerous smooth, flattened achenes form an oval head. Each tiny fruit ends in a very short, curved beak, a useful feature when distinguishing this species from other small-flowered buttercups. Great Plains Herbaria: Ranunculus abortivus, Flora of North America account

Bloom window

North America

The North American flora records flowering from March through July, with local timing varying across this extensive range. Great Plains Herbaria: Ranunculus abortivus, Flora of North America account

Native range

This native North American species ranges from subarctic regions into the central and eastern United States. It occupies woods, meadows, clearings and fallow fields, from low elevations into mountain country. Kew Plants of the World Online: Ranunculus abortivus Great Plains Herbaria: Ranunculus abortivus, Flora of North America account

Botanical sources

Reviewed 2026-10-11. Seasonal development varies with location and growing conditions.