Ranunculus (Buttercups)

Ranunculus species support diverse UK wildlife: Meadow varieties feed hoverflies (Syrphidae) and mining bees (Andrena spp.) with their UV-reflective blooms, while aquatic R. aquatilis (Water Crowfoot) sustains pond ecosystems, its flowers attract pollinators, and submerged leaves shelter damselfly nymphs. Woodland species provide early spring nectar for queen bumblebees (Bombus terrestris). Plant natives like R. lingua (Greater Spearwort) in damp meadows with Caltha palustris (Marsh Marigold) for wetland biodiversity. Though some species spread aggressively, their ecological value as pollinator hosts and aquatic habitat engineers is unparalleled.