Ranunculus asiaticus (Persian Buttercup)

This frost-hardy perennial is parent to many hybrids and cultivar. Ranunculus flowers are semi double to double with petals looking like crepe paper. The flower color varies from orange to yellow to red to white, many are variegated. They are great cut flowers. Plant the tubers from November to February (after February in colder areas). Soak the tubers for 24 hours before planting them, and plant them 6" apart. Do not water until sprouts emerge. Dead head the spent flowers to prevent too much energy going to grow seeds, and lift the tubers when the plants starts turning brown (around June). Keep the tuber dry, until the following fall.