Ranunculus acris is a species of flowering plant in the family Ranunculaceae, and is one of the more common buttercups across Europe and temperate Eurasia.

Ranunculus acris is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows to a height of 30 to 100 cm, with ungrooved flowing stems bearing glossy yellow flowers about 25 mm across.

[11] Its abundance is said to be an indicator of grassland age and continuity but does not appear to be a good competitor in species-rich communities dominated by tall grasses.

[11] Reproduction occurs from seeds and short thick rhizomes that can split to form daughter plants[12] In horticulture the species may be regarded as a troublesome weed, colonising lawns and paths.

The double-flowered cultivar R. acris 'Flore Pleno' has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

[13][14] Oils in the plant, probably present in the leaves and stems, contain the glycoside ranunculin, which when ingested can cause abdominal pains and intestinal disorders.