Lapland buttercup facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lapland buttercup |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Ranunculus
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| Species: |
lapponicus
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The Ranunculus lapponicus, also known as the Lapland buttercup, is a small plant found all over the Arctic. It grows in many cold places, but you won't find it in northern and eastern Greenland.
About the Lapland Buttercup
The Lapland buttercup is a low-growing plant. It spreads out along the ground. It has a special underground stem called a rhizome. This rhizome creeps along and sends out long stems and new shoots. These shoots are where the beautiful flowers grow.
What it Looks Like
The leaves of the Lapland buttercup are very interesting. They are divided into three main parts, like a three-leaf clover. Each of these parts has small teeth or wavy edges.
The flowers are bright yellow. They grow by themselves, not in bunches. Most flowers have six or sometimes eight petals. These petals are much longer than the small green parts underneath them, called sepals.
After the flower blooms, it forms a round head. This head is made of many small parts called carpels. These carpels hold the seeds. The round head sits above the plant as it spreads along the ground.
Where it Grows
This buttercup loves wet places. You can often find it growing in soft moss carpets. It especially likes to grow near beaches, along streams, and by lakes. It thrives in these damp, cool environments.
