Buttercup, also called crowfoot, is a genus of approximately 200 species of herbaceous flowering plants. Scientifically called Ranunculus, they are native to Europe and can be found in fields, lawns, gardens, and roadsides throughout North America.
They can grow up to 1 to 3 feet tall, being between 1 and 2 feet wide. They are winter hardy in growing zones 8-11, where they should be planted in fall for spring flowers. In zones 4-7, they are treated as annuals and are planted in spring for summer bloom.
Buttercups are wild, hairy plants that grow golden, yellow flowers of between 1 and 2 inches, being saucer-shaped. They need full sun and require temperatures of no more than 60°F. They will grow to their full potential in sandy, loamy soil, with medium moisture and well-drained.
The whole buttercup plant, when in flowering, is used to make medicine. People take the bulbous buttercup for arthritis, gout, nerve pain, skin diseases, swine flu, and meningitis despite serious safety concerns.
Related: Sun-Loving Flowers | Water-Loving Flowers | Shade-Loving Flowers | Types of Flowers | Types of Flowers by Color | Types of Flowers by Alphabet | Types of Flower Colors
1. Marigold
Tagetes, or as we know them, Marigold flowers, native to southwestern North America, tropical America, and South America. Their sizes vary from 6 to 12 inches tall and 6 to 9 inches wide. Marigolds grow well in hardy zones 2-11, and they do best in warmer months.
Marigolds have attractive yellow, orange, or red flowers that are solitary or clustered, with leaves opposite each other on the finely cut stem. They have bracts (leaflike structures) that form a cup-shaped base below each flower head.
The Marigold flower’s popularity derives from its ability to bloom all summer brightly, and it goes needless to say that they will thrive in full sun, taking hot, sunny exposures in stride. They grow where night temperatures do not drop below 60°F. A sand or loam mixture of soil is best, as clay soils are too heavy for vital aeration.
Marigold has been used for ages to treat irritated skin problems like burns, rashes, and wounds. When applied to the skin, it reduces redness, inflammation, dryness, sensitivity, and swelling.
2. Lily
Lilium, a genus of 80 to 100 species of herbaceous flowering plants, is native to temperate areas of the Nothern Hemisphere. They can get up to 8 feet tall and 12 inches wide. They will grow in hardy zones of 4-8, with leafy stems, scaly bulbs, narrow leaves, and clustered six-petaled trumpet-shaped flowers.
They bloom during early summer to fall and prefer full sun to partial shade. Lilies enjoy daytime temperatures between 68 and 85°F and nighttime temperatures of about 10°F cooler. They will grow well in moist and well-drained soil but never dry soil.
The Lily has been used for heart problems, such as heart failure and irregular heartbeat. It is also used for urinary tract infections, kidney stones, epilepsy, strokes, and eye infections.
3. Calla Lily
Zantedeschia, more commonly known as the Calla Lily, is native to the fields of South Africa and can grow as tall and wide as 3 feet. They grow in hardy zones of 8-10, blooming between midsummer and early fall for 3-8 weeks.
Calla Lilies are popular for their elegant bell shape in both gardens and as cut flowers. They have a large, flaring, trumpet-shaped bract, which surrounds the spadix covered with tiny flowers.
They need full sun to partial shade, with ideal temperatures of 60-75°F and nighttime temperatures that do not drop below 55°F. Their soil needs to be constantly moist but well-drained.
The stem of the Calla Lily was used as a medical treatment for open wounds in South Africa. Today, the flowers are generally used in weddings and funerals because of their elegance and symbolic purity.
4. Tulips
Scientifically known as Tulipa, these flowers are native to Eurasia from Austria and Italy eastward to Japan. Their height ranges from 6 inches to 2 feet, with a width of 6 inches. They grow in hardy zones of 3-8.
Tulips come in any color you can possibly think of. They are usually brightly colored flowers with a simple cup shape that grows on a green stem. One tulip grows on each stem, with two to six broad leaves per plant.
Blooming in spring, they need to be placed in full sun to partial shade, with well-drained soil. The ideal temperature to grow tulips is any temperature below 55°F.
Tulips can be used for both cosmetic and medical complications. Tulips are best for dry and sensitive skin and are put in creams, hand lotions, essential oils, and perfumes. Tulips are known to be an excellent poultice for insect bites, bee stings, burns, and rashes on the skin.
5. Carnations
Dianthus caryophyllus, native to the Mediterranean area, can grow up to 30 inches tall and 18 inches wide. They grow in hardy zones of 3-10. Carnations are popular for the spectrum of colors they come in. They grow full blooms of serrated petals on a long and narrow stalk.
Depending on their location, their growing season can last deep into summer, beginning to bloom in late spring, usually May. They need full sun to partial shade, in temperatures between 50 and 70°F. They will need well-drained soil, but should be kept moist.
Carnations are used for treating nervous and coronary disorders and can be used to break fevers. It can be put in a tea, which provides relief from stress and nervousness. It can also be used for treating muscle spasms and to improve heart health.
6. Gerbera Daisy
Gerbera Jamesonii, natively from South Africa, Swaziland. The plant reaches about 11 inches wide and 23 inches tall. It grows in hardy zones 9-11 and is seen as quite a hardy plant. This species is a stemless, clump-forming perennial and comes in many colors, including yellow.
Blooming in the summer and fall, Gerbera daisies need full sun to grow to their full potential. Their ideal temperatures would be temperatures no higher than 70°F, with a well-drained soil type.
The Gerbera daisy is a common favorite flower due to its strikingly beautiful appearance. The flowers are generally used for decorative reasons but are also used in flower beds. Gerbera Daisies could also be used in tea for coughs, bronchitis, liver, and kidneys disorders, and it could also reduce swelling.
7. Daffodil
Scientifically known as Narcissus. Daffodils are native to northern Europe and are now grown in temperate climates around the globe. They can grow up until 6 to 12 inches tall, being only 3 inches wide, and grows in hardy zones of 3-10.
Daffodils are composed of a trumpet-shaped set against a star-shaped background. The traditional flower will be a showy yellow or white, with six petals. They are fall-planted bulbs, and they will bloom in late winter or early spring.
They need full sun, with well-drained soil, with temperatures between 40 and 50°F. Their bulbs, leaves, and flowers are used to make medicine, although serious safety concerns have come to light. Daffodil is commonly only used for coughs, colds, and asthma.
8. Yarrow
Achillea, more commonly known as Yarrow, is a hardy perennial native to temperature regions of the Northern Hemisphere in Asia and Europe, and North America. The plant grows to 3 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. It grows in hardy zones of 3 to 9.
Yarrow has fern-like leaves, with flower heads packed with tiny blooms that usually come in yellow or white. The blooming time is during late spring and early summer, with full exposure to the sun. The ideal conditions include temperatures of 65-70°F with well-drained soil.
The top parts of Yarrow are used to make medicine. The medicine is commonly used for diarrhea, severe gas, asthma, colds, runny nose, arthritis, open wounds, skin healing, and liver disorders. Although there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses, many people believe that it works.
9. Hibiscus
Hibiscus rosa-Sinensis are native to South Africa. They are huge plants and can get as tall as 8 feet, being 3-5 feet wide. They grow in hardy zones 5-8.
Hibiscus has big trumpet-shaped blooms with dark green leaves, with blooms usually being yellow of color. They bloom during summer and fall and will grow best in full sun to partial shade conditions. They need moist and well-drained soil, with temperatures between 60 and 90°F.
All parts of the Hibiscus plant can be used traditionally. Due to their soothing and astringent properties, their flowers and leaves have been used to treat conditions such as cancer and gallbladder attacks. It is also used to lower blood pressure, relieve dry coughs, and topically treat skin infections.
10. Perennial Geranium
Geraniums are native to South Africa and made their way to Europe during the 17th century, where they remain popular plantings. They grow 4-48 inches tall and 6-36 inches wide and do best in hardy zones 4-8.
They bloom during the spring and need full sun exposure with partial shade in the afternoon. Although not yellow flowers, these perennial plant also produces clusters of blossoms ranging from white to blue.
They need well-drained soil kept moist at all times. They prefer daytime temperatures of 65 to 70°F, with slightly cooler night temperatures.
Geranium has been used as essential oil to treat health conditions for centuries. There has been scientific data indicating that it may be beneficial for several conditions such as depression, anxiety, and even infections and pain management.
11. Zinnia
Scientifically known as Zinnia elegans, these plants are true American natives found in the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. They grow in hardy zones 3-10 and grows about 3 feet tall and 18 inches wide.
Zinnias have bright, daisy-like heads on tall, slender stems. They bloom annually, typically in late spring to early fall. They need full sun and temperatures of 74-84°F, with well-drained soil.
Zinnia flowers are not only edible, but they have a mild medicinal activity that may improve and lower cholesterol levels when taken internally. The flowers may also work as a tonic for the liver when taken internally.
12. Begonia
Begonia, native to Central and South America and sub-Saharan Africa. They grow in hardy zones 6-11, being 12 to 18 inches tall and wide.
Begonias come in several varieties, but most have large double flowers in yellow, pink, orange, white, and red. These beautiful flowers bloom on top of dark green leaves.
Blooming in early summer, Begonias will need full sun exposure with partial shade conditions in the afternoon. Any temperatures around 75°F are perfect for these plants, with moist and well-drained soil.
Begonias are grown for their foliage and attractive flowers. They can be used as outdoor bedding plants or can be grown in window boxes, hanging baskets, as well as other containers. These plants have no scientifically proven health benefits but are believed to be good for the digestive system and help for relieving flu-like symptoms.
13. Sunflower
Helianthus, much more commonly known as Sunflowers, is native to North America. They can grow up to 1 foot wide and have astounding heights of up to 15 feet. They grow in hardy zones of 3 to 10.
Sunflowers have big, daisy-like flower faces with a brown center filled with seeds that ripen and can be eaten. They bloom during fall and need full sun with temperatures between 70 and 78°F. They will excel in well-drained soil and should be dried out completely between waterings.
The leaves of the Sunflower plant are used as fodder, and their flowers yield a yellow dye. Their seeds contain oil and are used for food. Sunflowers are also a great source of Vitamin E, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B6, Iron, Copper, Selenium, as well as Magnesium and Zinc.
14. Ranunculus
Ranunculus, native to Greenland and possibly Alaska in North America. They will grow in hardy zones 8-11 and grow up to 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide.
They come in bright colors and grow on long stems, blooming in spring. They like temperatures of 55°F, with full sun exposure. It would be best to plant them in well-drained soil, as they are extremely susceptible to root rot.
The whole flowering plant is used to make medicine. Despite a number of safety concerns, people use the Ranunculus plant for skin diseases, gout, nerve pain, flu, and meningitis.
15. Yellow Butterfly Bush
Scientifically known as Buddleia davidii, this plant is native to central China. They can grow about 7 inches tall and 5 inches wide, and will do well in hardy zones 5-10.
The Butterfly Bush has lance-shaped leaves with arching branches. They are one of the most fragrant flowers and attract butterflies and hummingbirds. The shrub usually begins blooming in early to mid-summer.
They need full sun in well-drained soil to grow and bloom to their full potential. They are cold hardy plants and can withstand cold and icy temperatures. They will grow well with temperatures up to but not exceeding 90°F.
Despite the Butterfly Bush’s use in horticulture, the plant has other economic uses. Its leaves make an aromatic herbal tea, and can be made into an infusion to apply as an eye lotion. Its roots are used as a remedy for cough and colic.
16. Bulbine
Scientifically known as Bulbine frutescens, this plant is native to South Africa and is a perfect perennial for dry climates. It can grow up to 18 inches tall and can spread to a width of 8 feet. They grow in hardy zones 9-11.
Bulbine has grass-like foliage containing yellow or orange blossoms. Their blossoms usually form thick and colorful clumps. They usually bloom during the spring and summer, but Bulbine plants will bloom throughout the year in warmer zones.
These plants need full exposure to the sun in well-drained soil that needs to dry out completely between waterings. Bulbine will excel in hotter temperatures, with ideal temperatures ranging between 73 and 77°F.
Bulbine’s roots, leaves, and stems can be used as medicine. The root is taken by mouth for vomiting, seizures, diabetes, and arthritis. The stem is taken by mouth to boost testosterone, increase muscle mass, increase sexual stamina, and is seen as an aphrodisiac.
17. Jessamine
Botanically named Gelsemium sempervirens, this plant is native to Virginia and Florida. It grows in hardy zones 7-9 and is a landscape plant that will become 20 feet or taller when allowed to grow fully. It can become as wide as 15 feet.
Jessamine is an early-blooming plant with bright, funnel-shaped flowers blooming from February through to May. They need full sun to partial shade conditions, with temperatures between 10 and 15°F. However, temperatures this low are rarely sustained for long periods and may not drop this low every winter.
Soil conditions should be kept at a constant moisture level, with well-drained properties.
Jessamine can be used internally for treating neuralgia, sciatica, migraines, severe pain, and toothaches. The fresh root is used for treating various complaints such as flu and fevers. It can also be used to treat certain mental disorders as well as phobias.
18. Dutch Hyacinth
Scientifically known as Hyacinthus orientalis, Hyacinth originated from southwestern Asia, southern and central Turkey, northwestern Syria, Lebanon, and northern Israel. The plant itself will grow approximately 12 inches tall and 6 inches wide, in hardy zones 10-11.
Hyacinth grows from a spring-flowering bulb, and the bulbs can be described as ball-shaped clusters of up to 20 individual flowers blooming on top of a tall, slender stem. They need full sun to partial shade and prefer temperatures between 40 and 45°F. They appreciate well-drained soil and should never dry out in between waterings.
Hyacinth has quite a few medicinal uses, such as the healing of sore throats, cholera, snake bites, healthier digestion, as well as controlling cholesterol. It has anti-inflammatory properties and even works to treat some SDI’s.
19. Coreopsis
With an easy name of Coreopsis lanceolata, this plant is native to most of the United States, parts of Canada, and Mexico. Growing up to 72 inches tall and 48 inches wide, they grow in hardy zones of 3-9.
Coreopsis flowers are yellow flowers much similar in appearance to Buttercups. They grow from multiple erect stems and have opposite, linear leaves mostly found in the bottom half of the plant. Their petals can come in varying shades of yellow and pink. They usually bloom from late summer to early fall.
They need full sun at all times with well-drained soil. They will grow to their full potential when in temperatures between 70 and 75°F.
Native Indians have used the Coreopsis plant for centuries to treat several disorders, including diarrhea, and internal pain, and bleeding. It is also believed that when made into tea, Coreopsis can strengthen the blood.
20. Goldenrod
Scientifically named Solidago, although natively from North America, a few species of these plants also grow in Europe and Asia. Goldenrod can grow up to 1.5-5 feet tall and 15 inches wide. It grows in hardy zones 4-9.
This perennial wildflower has tall and leafy stalks with blooms clustered along the ends. As their beautiful name indicates, Goldenrods are a deep yellow. They usually flower in late summer and prefer temperatures as close as 50°F as possible.
They need well-drained soil to grow to their full potential, and their soil should never be completely dried out.
When it comes to medicinal uses, a few animal and test-tube studies suggest that the Goldenrod plant may help to reduce inflammation, relieve muscle spasms, fight infections, and lowers blood pressure. Some believe it could even be used to prevent and treat kidney stones.
21. Pansy
Botanically known as Viola wittrockiana, these plants we now call Pansy originated in Iver, Buckinghamshire, England. They will spread about 9 to 12 inches and grow as tall as 9 inches. They typically grow in hardy zones 4-8.
Pansies come in several colors and can bloom in any season during the year. They are hardy annuals and do well as ground covers or borders. They have heart or round-shaped leaves sprouting from their base, with oval leaves that grow from the stem.
Pansies need full sun to grow at their best, and they need well-drained soil kept at constant moisture. For successful growing and blooming, pansies will need temperatures between 45 and 65°F.
Pansies are known for treating bronchitis and asthma. It is also helpful when dealing with constipation. Pansies are graced with diuretic properties, and it helps to eliminate all excess water, which means it stimulates urine.
22. Black-Eyed Susan
Botanically known as Rudbeckia, this plant originated from eastern and Central America. Black-Eyed Susans generally grow between 1 and 3 feet tall and can spread between 12 to 18 inches. They grow in hardy zones 3-11.
Black-eyed Susans are sturdy, daisy-like plants with golden flowers with a dark brown center. Their flowers are bright yellow and are enough to brighten up any garden. This plant blooms all summer, and flowering can continue when planted in warmer areas.
They need full sun to partial shade and do well in temperatures close to 70°F. They are incredibly hardy and can withstand colder temperatures as well. They prefer well-drained soil but have to be kept at a constant moist state.
In East Africa, the Black-Eyed Susan is used as a vegetable and stock feed. Medicinally, it is used for skin problems, cellulitis, back and joint pains, eye inflammation, piles, and rectal cancer. Gall sickness and some ear problems in cattle are also treated with this beneficial plant.
23. Primrose
Scientifically known as Oenothera, this beautiful plant is native to America. Most of them grow between 12 and 36 inches tall and spreads to approximately 12 inches. They grow in hardy zones 3-11.
The Primrose produces a goblet-shaped flower and blooms in yellow, pink, or white. Their flowers are extremely fragrant. They usually bloom from late spring to early summer when well looked after.
The standard growth temperatures for the Primrose ranges from 64 to 78°F, although it could withstand slightly colder temperatures.
Primrose has several medicinal uses and is a highly beneficial plant to have in your garden. It can help clear up difficult skin problems such as acne and eczema and improve overall skin health. It may also help reduce high blood pressure, hot flashes, and breast pain, even relieving PMS symptoms.
24. Craspedia
Scientifically named Craspedia globose, these plants are native to Australia and New Zealand, where they grow in various habitats ranging from sea level to the Alps. This plant can natively grow up to 4-24 inches and have a width of two feet. It is best grown in hardy zones 8-11.
The plant forms the rosette of leaves with yellow spherical flowers that resembles small tennis balls. The Craspedia blooms year-round in warmer climates and needs full sun to partial shade for perfect plant health.
In well-drained soil and temperatures between 70 and 75°F, the Craspedia plant will grow to its full potential, assuring beautiful yellow blossoms.
Craspedia is known as a very versatile flower to use in centerpieces, table pieces, wedding arrangements, and corsages. It has no medical uses, and when ingested, it may cause nausea, diarrhea, skin irritation, as well as an accelerated heartbeat.
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