Buttercup
Ranunculus spp. · Ranunculaceae
How it looks
Ranunculus is marked by round flowers whose petals are densely layered in many tiers, like a poppy. White, pink, red, yellow, orange, and purple are common, and the flowers measure 2-4 in (5-10 cm) across. The leaves are feather-shaped, lobed, and dark green, and it reaches 12-24 in (30-60 cm) tall.
Caution — sap causes blisters in the mouth
The sap in the leaves and stems contains protoanemonin; chewing can cause drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea along with blistering in the mouth.
Guide for parents
Buttercup is a popular spring cut flower. The sap that comes out when the stem breaks is what causes irritation. People can develop dermatitis too when handling the cut stems, so don't leave trimmed stems lying around — dispose of them right away. If you confirm ingestion, rinse the mouth with water, and if blisters around the mouth or drooling last more than 6 hours, we recommend consulting your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, blistering
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Ranunculus spp.
- Common name
- Buttercup
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts (especially the sap)
- Compounds
- Protoanemonin
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, blistering
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
- Source
- ASPCA
Also known as
Related plants
Same plant family· Ranunculaceae
Related guides
Top 10 Flowers Dangerous to Cats — The Ones You See at Florists
Ten flowers you'll commonly find at florists and grocery stores that are toxic to cats. Check before you receive them, and before you bring them home.
Got a Bouquet? What to Do If You Have a Cat
A bouquet is a lovely surprise — but if you live with a cat, there are a few things to take care of right away. From checking what's in the arrangement to choosing the right vase, here's what actually helps, in order.
Why Cats Chew Plants, and How to Stop It
A cat chewing and tearing at plants isn't just mischief — there's an instinct behind it. Once you understand why, the ways to stop it follow naturally.