Greater Spearwort
Ranunculus maius
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
High
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Hardy perennial
Native To
Europe, Western Asia, Northwest Africa
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Ranunculus lingua, commonly known as greater spearwort, is a vigorous, spreading, aquatic or marginal perennial. It features hollow, erect stems, long lance-shaped leaves, and large, glossy, buttercup-like yellow flowers. This species thrives in wet areas and can be used effectively in bog gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during propagation.
- Water consistently, keeping soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth.
- Prune dead or damaged foliage to encourage healthy growth.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Provide full sun for optimal blooms
- Fertilize monthly during growing season
- Prune to shape and remove dead foliage
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent rot ❌
- Don’t expose to excessive shade
- Refrain from heavy fertilization late in season
- Don’t disturb roots when transplanting
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Greater Spearwort questions
What zones can Greater Spearwort grow in?
Greater Spearwort is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Greater Spearwort deer resistant?
Yes — Greater Spearwort is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Greater Spearwort bloom?
Greater Spearwort typically blooms in summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Greater Spearwort need full sun?
Greater Spearwort does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Ranunculus to compare
Buttercup
Ranunculus ranunculus
'Buttered Popcorn' Creeping Buttercup
Ranunculus repens 'Buttered Popcorn'
'Brazen Hussy' Lesser Celandine
Ranunculus ficaria 'Brazen Hussy'
Persian Buttercup 'Amandine Pastel Pink'
Ranunculus asiaticus 'Amandine Pastel Pink'
Persian Buttercup
Ranunculus asiaticus
California Buttercup
Ranunculus californicus
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Greater Spearwort with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
