Ranunculus inundatus (River Buttercup)

31 October 2026

Ranunculus inundatus is an Australian amphibious buttercup valued in aquariums for its distinctive, deeply divided leaves. Underwater, it forms a low to medium-height planting from creeping stems and can produce a spreading group when conditions are suitable. It is generally suitable for the foreground or lower middle ground, although strong light and regular trimming may be needed to keep growth compact. Identification is reasonably secure from the supplied source name, but cultivated forms can vary in leaf size and habit.

Identification

Ranunculus inundatus is recognized by its palmate, finely divided leaves carried on individual petioles. In aquarium culture it develops creeping growth and may spread laterally from the base. The foliage is usually green to light green. It is an amphibious species, so its appearance can change substantially when grown emersed or allowed to reach the water surface.

Placement and planting

Plant individual rooted portions in nutrient-rich substrate with the crown kept at or just above the substrate surface. Leave space between portions so the creeping stems can spread without becoming overcrowded. It works best in the foreground or lower middle ground, where its unusual leaf shape contrasts with finer-textured carpeting plants.

Light and carbon

Moderate to strong aquarium lighting helps maintain compact growth and encourages dense foliage. Carbon dioxide supplementation is beneficial and generally improves establishment, leaf production, and overall form, although the plant may survive under lower-carbon conditions with slower growth. Maintain stable water conditions and avoid shading it with taller plants.

Maintenance

Remove damaged or excessively long leaves close to their base and thin spreading stems when they begin to cover neighboring plants. Replant healthy rooted sections after trimming if additional groups are wanted. Regular pruning is preferable to repeatedly uprooting the entire planting, which can disturb the roots and substrate.

Propagation

Propagation is normally carried out by separating rooted lateral growth or portions of the creeping stem. Each division should retain healthy roots or a viable growth point. Plant the divisions gently and give them stable conditions while they establish. The species may also grow emersed, but aquarium stock should be acclimated gradually when changing between emersed and submerged culture.

Plant info

Colors: Green, Light green
Difficulty: Medium
Origin: Australia
Usage: Foreground
Type: Amphibious rosette-forming stem plant
Growth rate: Medium
Height: 5–15 cm submerged
Light demand: Medium
CO2: Medium

Ranunculus inundatus

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