River water-crowfoot

The river water-crowfoot (Ranunculus fluitans) is commonly found in fast-flowing streams and rivers in England, Wales and southern Scotland. The main bulk of the plant is underwater with only the flower stems poking above the surface. The plant depends on the water being unpolluted so that sunlight can reach the tassel-like leaves. In turn, the presence of river water-crowfoot is a reliable sign that the stream is in generally good condition.

The stems of river water-crowfoot can be up to 20 feet (six metres) long. The tassels, which divide into narrow, hair-like segments, can be up to 12 inches (30 centimetres) long.

The flowers, which appear mostly in June, are white, about one inch (2-3 centimetres) across, and with overlapping petals, of which there can be eight per flower. The fruit heads are likewise held above the surface on stout stalks.

© John Welford