Ranunculus asiaticus 'Tecolote'
This long‑selected Persian buttercup strain is known for sweeping field displays and tall stems. Large, fully double flowers and a wide color palette suit mild, maritime climates best. Plants grow from corms and prefer cool spring weather, full sun, and excellent drainage. In Zones 8 to 10, fall planting gives March to April bloom. In colder regions, late winter planting gives late spring color.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Persian Buttercup Series: Tecolote
- Height × spread: 18–24 in × 10–12 in (45–60 cm × 25–30 cm)
- Bloom window: Early to mid spring in mild zones; late spring elsewhere
- Color & flower form: Fully double; broad color range including white, yellow, orange, pink, red
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: Zones 8–10; grown as annual in colder zones
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Edwin Frazee and predecessors, 20th c., USA
- Cut‑flower notes: Strong, straight stems; harvest at marshmallow stage; typical vase life 7–10 to 10–12 days
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Taller stems and larger flowers than many seed strains
- Field‑proven strain for display scale
- Best where springs are long and cool
Strengths
- Large, fully double blooms
- Reliable stems for cutting
- Good productivity in mild climates
- Long vase life when cut in bud stage
Care in one minute
- Site in full sun with wind protection and sharply drained soil
- Plant pre‑soaked corms 2 in deep and 6–8 in apart with claws down
- Water evenly while growing; allow the surface to dry between waterings
- Feed lightly every 2 to 3 weeks; deadhead to extend bloom
- Lift and store dry after foliage yellows in cold or wet‑summer regions
Watch‑outs
- Needs excellent drainage; corms can rot in wet soils
- Bloom shortens quickly in heat above 80°F
- Susceptible to Botrytis in cool, wet springs
- Not winter hardy where colder than Zone 8
Best uses (tags)
cutting, borders, mass plantings, containers, cool‑season
Provenance note
Selected over decades by the Frazee family in Carlsbad, California; the name Tecolote refers to local owls. The strain underpins The Flower Fields displays each spring.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder – Ranunculus asiaticus
- RHS – Ranunculus asiaticus profile
- Garden Design – Ranunculus profile with ‘Giant Tecolote’ notes
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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