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NSTAR 004/ 009
Botanical drawing and photograph of Creeping Buttercup (Ranunculus repens) Toxic · don't eat

Creeping Buttercup

Ranunculus repensRanunculaceae family

also: Common Buttercup · Sitfast · Crowfoot

About this plant 01

A persistent perennial weed spreading via stolons and seed, thriving in moist, compacted soil. Glossy bright yellow five-petalled flowers. Presence is a useful indicator of compacted or waterlogged soil conditions on the farm.

Notes for working with it 02

Toxic if eaten fresh — contains protoanemonin which causes mouth and gut irritation. Can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Where you'll find it chilling 03

  • Spring–Autumn
  • Moist soil
  • Compacted ground
  • Near structures
  • Soil indicator
  • Some pollinator value

Ways to use it 04

  1. Soil condition indicator

    Presence reliably signals compacted, waterlogged or nitrogen-rich soil. Use location to identify areas needing drainage improvement or aeration.

  2. Minor pollinator value

    Flowers provide some nectar and pollen for early-season insects. Tolerable in small numbers at farm margins.

  3. Weed management

    Pull by root before seeding, ensuring all stolons are removed. Improving drainage long-term reduces reoccurrence.

Specimen label 05

Specimen no.
NSTAR-004
Safety
Toxic · don't eat
Found at
Near shed base / greenhouse
Recorded
22 · 05 · 2026
In season
Spring–Autumn

Next in the guide 06

No. 005 of 009 Shining Cranesbill Geranium lucidum Read it

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