Ranunculus: a perennially adored wedding and cut flower, also known as 'Persian Buttercups'. These gorgeous, ephemeral blooms are native to the Mediterranean and Middle East, and are an early spring flower there, putting on most of their growth in the cool, damp winter months. However, like so many bulb-forming plants adapted to that region, they can be grown in many different climates depending on how much work the gardener is willing to do...
Ranunculus are a perennial species, adapted to last through hot, dry dormant periods by storing food in enlarged root structures. When actively growing, they love the cool late spring and early summer weather we usually get in Wellington!
Important: Plant them the right way up!
The top of the corm is the fuzzy/furry, lighter portion where all the root 'arms' come together. Generally the pointed claw like root tips point down.
Plant in the ground in autumn for late winter or early spring bloom. They should be soaked in a shallow tray of water overnight before planting, where they will swell many times the size they were when dry from the pack. Plant in sheltered areas with really good drainage, in full sun to partial shade and in soil which is particularly fertile.