Home Page
Submit Data
 Lilac/Honeysuckle
Native Plants
Ecoregion Map
Registration
Mission
Meetings and Press
Publications
Graphics
On-Line Data
Other Networks
Contact Information
|
 |
Ranunculus glaberrimus Observations
(sagebrush buttercup)
Submit Data Observations
Introduction to the NPN Native Species Observation Program
This very small wildflower (max. 15 cm tall) appears shortly after snowmelt in arid grassland regions. It is often found growing with big sagebrush plants, ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir trees. Sagebrush buttercup mainly produces low, basal leaves that often show shallow notches near the leaf tip. In early spring, this plant makes an intense show of shiny yellow flowers. Dense fruit clusters (7-12 mm across) contain up to 150 tiny seeds. Each seed has a hairy texture and a slightly curved hook, which can latch onto fur or clothing to carry the seeds to a new location. Check your socks!
Source: Plantwatch Canada
You should record when two well-defined phenological events occur for sagebrush buttercup:
- First bloom (FB) First select an approximately 1 by 1 meter plot for observation, and then record the date when first flowers are open in at least three places on the observed plants.
- Mid bloom (MB) Within the same 1 by 1 meter plot used for first bloom, this is the date when 50% of the flowers are open on the observed plants.
Return to Form
Report by email if any plant appears in poor health.
|
