Hui Hui Suan (Ranunculus chinensis)
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a moist loamy soil. A greedy plant, inhibiting the growth of nearby plants, especially legumes.
Propagation
Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring. Larger divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions. We have found that it is better to pot up the smaller divisions and grow them on in light shade in a cold frame until they are well established before planting them out in late spring or early summer.
Edible uses
Young leaves - boiled. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.
Habitat
Wet places in C. Japan.
Native range
E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea.
Same genus
- Littleleaf buttercup (Ranunculus abortivus)
- Aconite-leaf buttercup (Ranunculus aconitifolius)
- Sharpleaf buttercup (Ranunculus acriformis)
- Tall buttercup (Ranunculus acris)
- Alpine buttercup (Ranunculus adoneus)
- Plantainleaf buttercup (Ranunculus alismifolius)
- Allegheny Mountain buttercup (Ranunculus allegheniensis)
- Allen's buttercup (Ranunculus allenii)