About Ceratocephala orthoceras DC.
Nomenclature
Ceratocephala orthoceras DC. is a species of flowering plant that has the scientific synonyms Ceratocephala testiculata and Ranunculus testiculatus. It is native to Eurasia, and its common names are bur buttercup and curveseed butterwort.
Size
This plant is very small, typically only growing one to two inches tall, though it can reach up to four inches in height.
Vegetative and Floral Morphology
It has small, dull yellow flowers, and hairy, somewhat dissected leaves.
Fruit Structure
It produces a cluster of hard, spiny fruits called 'burs'.
Toxicity
Like other members of the buttercup family, this plant is poisonous.
Habitat Disturbance Indicator
Large populations of this species usually indicate that the land has experienced excessive disturbance.
Invasive Status
The species is classified as invasive in the northern and western United States.
Bloom Phenology
In sagebrush habitats, it is one of the first plants to bloom after snow melts.
