Ranunculus peduncularis Sm.

Growth Form

Ranunculus peduncularis Sm. is a tuft-forming perennial herb that grows from a rhizome, reaching 10–50 cm (3.9–19.7 in) in height.

Leaf Structure

Its leaves are round, 6–8 cm in diameter, and deeply incised to form a compound structure of three leaflets. Each leaflet is further split into two to three lobes, and leaf petioles can grow up to 20 cm (7.9 in) long.

Flower Arrangement

Its flowers reach 3½ cm (1.4 in) in diameter, and are borne singly or in groups of two or three per stem. Flowers have 10 to 22 oblong, glossy, rich yellow petals.

Variety Distinction

The variety Ranunculus peduncularis var. erodiifolius has more deeply cut leaves with narrower leaf segments.

Native Range

This species is native to Chile and Argentina, where its range extends from the central northern cordilleras south to Tierra del Fuego.

Habitat and Elevation

It grows on grassy stream banks, in meadows with scrub, and along woodland margins, occurring from sea level up to 2,500 m (8,200 ft), with elevation limits varying by latitude.

Distribution in Argentina

In Argentina, it has been recorded in the provinces of Chubut, Mendoza, Neuquen, Rio Negro, Santa Cruz, and Tierra del Fuego.

Distribution in Chile

In Chile, it occurs in Coquimbo, Valparaiso, O'Higgins, Maule, Bio Bio, Araucania, Los Lagos, Aisen, Magallanes, and Region Metropolitana.