Buttercup flowers are members of the Ranunculus genus, a large family (about 400 species) of flowers. These bright, yellow, five-petaled summer bloomers, are native to Asia, Australia, Central America, North America and Europe. Buttercups are half hardy perennials.

Buttercup flowers look great as wildflowers, brightening up fields and hillsides. They are also at home in flower beds and rock gardens.

Child's Play: We all will likely remember this scene.... A child comes across a Buttercup flower in bloom, turns to his or her playmate and says: "Do you like Butter?'" The buttercup flower is then placed just below the chin. If your chin glows yellow, then you do indeed like butter!

Growing Buttercups is very easy. They require little or no attention. So, if you'd like to bring back few childhood memories, or just confirm whether you like butter, find a spot in your yard to grow these flowers.

While most of us think of Buttercups as a yellow flowered plant, there are also orange, pink, red and white varieties.

How to Grow Buttercup Ranunculus Plants:

Buttercups grow from seed or roots. The seed is difficult to germinate and takes weeks to sprout. Most people grow these plants from division of the roots.  Divide plants in spring or fall. Or, they can be bought at your local garden store.

Buttercup plants like full sun to partial shade. They need a light soil that drains well. While they do not require a rich soil, this will help with their growth. They also prefer cooler soil. Mulch around your plants, if grown in a sunny location. 

Add a general purpose fertilizer in the spring, and once a month afterwards.

Water established plants during dry periods and droughts.

Insect and plant disease do not appear to be too common. However, you may experience plant disease problems in wet, humid weather.

In the fall, add a layer of mulch in cold weather areas. This will help protect the roots during winter months.