Ranunculus
Ranunculus are one of the most beautiful flowers you can buy in the UK. Their layered petals with their tightly packed petals and silky texture, they are absolutely gorgeous and so underrated. Pink Hanoi or Italian Pink tulips are delicious (not to eat) but just mesmerising.
This guide answers all your questions, including when ranunculus are in season in the UK, how to care for them, what they mean and how to order ranunculus bouquet delivery to your door.
When are ranunculus in season in the UK?
Ranunculus are a cool-season flower. In the UK, they are typically available from late February through to May, with peak availability in March and April. They are grown in mild, temperate conditions and the hot summer is a not their best months. This is why their season is relatively short.
UK grown ranunculus are increasingly available from specialist growers, however much of the supply arrives from Italy, France and the Netherlands during the season.
Ranunculus varieties and colours
Ranunculus come in an extraordinary range of colours, from the palest blush to deep burgundy and coral.
Pink ranunculus are the most popular, particularly blush pink. They suit romantic arrangements, wedding flowers and spring gifting beautifully.
White ranunculus are a florist favourite for their versatility. Clean, crisp and elegant, white ranunculus work in minimalist arrangements and as a complement to bolder stems. They are a popular choice for bridal bouquets.
Other popular colours include peach, apricot, coral, red, yellow and plum.
What do ranunculus symbolise?
Ranunculus carry a meaning of charm and attractiveness. In the Victorian language of flowers, giving someone ranunculus was a way of saying you found them radiant and dazzling. They are associated with warmth, joy and the feeling of being captivated by someone.
Today, ranunculus are widely used as a gift to express admiration, celebrate a birthday or mark a special occasion in spring.
Ranunculus as a gift: when to send them
Ranunculus make a beautiful gift from late February through to May. Their season aligns with Valentine's Day (for early-season stems), Mother's Day and spring birthdays.
Ranunculus bouquet delivery is available through FLOWERFIX during the season, with next-day delivery options across the UK. They travel well in bud and open gradually over several days, so the recipient gets to enjoy the full bloom.
How long do ranunculus last?
With good care, ranunculus typically last up to seven days in a vase (more in cooler climates). They arrive in tight bud and open slowly, which means you get to enjoy the full journey from closed bud to bloom.
How to care for ranunculus
Cut the stems at a 45-degree angle with a sharp, clean knife or secateurs. Avoid domestic scissors as they crush the stem and reduce water uptake. Trim at least two centimetres from the base.
Remove any leaves that would sit below the waterline. Place them in a clean vase with cool, fresh water. Add the flower food sachet if one was provided.
Keep them away from direct sunlight, radiators, draughts and ripening fruit. Change the water and re-trim the stems every two to three days. Ranunculus are thirsty flowers and benefit from fresh water regularly.
Ranunculus prefer cool conditions. In a warm room they will open faster and have a shorter vase life. A cool hallway or kitchen is ideal if you want to lengthen their stay.
Are ranunculus safe for cats and dogs?
Ranunculus contain compounds that can cause mild irritation if ingested by cats or dogs, including mouth irritation and digestive upset. They are considered toxic to pets and should be kept out of reach of animals.
If you are looking for a pet-safe alternative, all FLOWERFIX pet safe bouquets are guaranteed free of ranunculus and any other stems toxic to cats and dogs.
Related guides:
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