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Northwest Blooms · Perennials

Ranunculus aconitifolius 'Flore Pleno'

Fair Maids of France

Ranunculus aconitifolius 'Flore Pleno'
Family
Ranunculaceae
Height
1.5-2 feet tall
Width
1-2 feet wide
Flower color
Double white, small and rose-like
Foliage color
Deep green, lobed leaves
Bloom time
Late spring to early summer
Light
Partial shade to full sun
Water
Medium to high
Maintenance
Moderate; trim after flowering to encourage compact growth
Growing zone
USDA Zones 4-7
Wildlife
Attracts pollinators, including bees

About this plant

Ranunculus aconitifolius 'Flore Pleno', often known as the double-flowered form of fair maids of France, is cherished for its delicate, pure white, double blooms that resemble small, clustered roses. These blossoms emerge in late spring to early summer, creating a soft, cloud-like effect in the garden that pairs beautifully with other early-season perennials. The flowers are densely packed with petals, adding a refined, almost lace-like appearance against the plant's lush green foliage.

Native to the cool, mountainous regions of Europe, this ranunculus cultivar has been appreciated in European gardens for its elegance and adaptability to cooler climates. 'Flore Pleno' is especially suited for naturalistic or cottage-style plantings, where its soft, romantic blooms can be allowed to naturalize or complement other shade-loving plants. This cultivar is both ornamental and easy to maintain, making it a favorite for gardeners seeking timeless, understated beauty in shaded or woodland settings.

Works well in

Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rain Gardens · Containers

Companion plants

Japanese anemones · Bleeding hearts · Catmint · Heucheras · Lady's mantle · Hellebores

Design tip

Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. It takes sun or light shade, which makes it useful along the changing light of a bed edge or a partly shaded border.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.