Ranunculus macounii, June 8, 2020
Common & scientific name
Macoun’s buttercup, Ranunculus macounii
Family
Buttercup, Ranunculaceae
Location
Twin Lakes, 9,700’
Fun, weird, helpful, or little known fact
Many of us can recall holding a buttercup up to a friend’s chin and seeing its yellow reflection. This glossy-reflective property on the outside (but not innermost part) of the buttercup’s petals is water repellent, causing dew or rain to drain off and leave pollen floating just at the level of the stigmas and thus aiding pollination. Most beautiful adaptations are, indeed, useful, as well!