Etymology: Ranunculus: from Latin rana, "little frog," because many species tend to grow in moist places
Plants: perennial aquatic, rarely completely out of the water; stems hollow
Leaves: 2 times 3-parted; those above the water kidney shaped; submerged leaves with linear segments
Flowers: yellow, 5-parted, 1/2"-1" wide, normally 5 sepals, petals about 2/3 bigger than the sepals; solitary flowers on long, stout stalks; blooms April-June
Fruits: dry seed
Habitat: shallows, quiet water
Hazardous: Careful, this plant is hazardous!
Conservation Status: Native

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 8, Wetland Indicator = OBL USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos USGS - Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center: Wetland Plants and Plant Communities of Minnesota and Wisconsin