1. Ranuculaceae “Buttercup Family”
By: Levi Eggermont

2. General info
The Ranunculaceae are herbs or rarely shrubs or vines comprising genera and 2,000-2,500 species. The leaves are typically alternate, compound, and estipulate.
The flowers are actinomorphic or less commonly zygomorphic and are usually bisexual. The perianth is usually in two, often 5-merous cycles that may or may not be differentiated into calyx and corolla. The petals are usually nectariferous near the base, and in Ranunculus there is a flap of tissue in this position.
Typical flowers have many helically disposed stamens and simple pistils on an elongated receptacle. All of the floral parts are distinct. Each pistil has a superior ovary with one locule and 1-several parietal ovules. A single flower commonly produces a cluster of achenes or follicles.

3. Diagram of a Ranuculaceae flower

4. Distribution of Ranuculaceae

5. Genus Actea
Actea rubra

6. Genus Anemone
Anemone quinquefolia

7. Genus Aquilegia
Aquilegia canadensis

8. Genus Caltha
Caltha palustris

9. Genus Hepatica
Hepatica acuta

10. Genus Ranuculus
Ranuculus abortivus

11. Genus Thalictrum
Thalictrum diocum

12. Sources