Bur Buttercup
Ranunculus testiculatus Synonym: Ceratocephalus testiculatus Family: Ranunculaceae – Buttercup Family Annual herbs; dicot; 0.6” to 4” (1.5 to 10 cm) tall; hairy Leaves: basal; simple; deeply 3-parted; 0.12” to 1.6” (0.3 to 4 cm) long, 0.12” to 1.2” (0.3 to 3 cm) wide Flowers: 2 to 5 yellow petals, 0.14” to 0.31” (3.5 to 8 mm) long; 5 hairy green sepals; stamens 5 to numerous; pistils 5 to many; perfect Pollinators: other Ranunculus species are pollinated by insects Fruits: hairy achenes; most fruits in this family are poisonous because of the volatile acrid oil - protoanemonin Blooms in Arches National Park: March, April, May Habitat in Arches National Park: disturbed areas and dry areas Location seen: Windows, Delicate Arch trail Other: The genus name, “Ranunculus”, means “small frog” which refers to the many species of this genus that grow in moist locations. The genus name, “Ceratocephalus”, is from the Greek “keras” which means "a horn" and the Greek “kephale” meaning "head". The species name, “testiculatus”, refers to the ovate and solid shape. This plant is a weed and was introduced from Eurasia. Several species in this family are grown as ornamentals, others provide drugs, and some are poisonous. |
Did You Know?
Lizards, including the colorful collared lizard, are one of the most frequently seen animals at Arches. When not chasing flies or basking in the sun, they are often seen doing what appears to be push-ups. This odd dance might enhance their stereoscopic vision, helping them see what's looking back at them.