Butterfly Ranunculus at Trader Joe’s

Select Trader Joe's locations will also be lucky enough to see the return of the butterfly ranunculus, for $8 per bunch. This variety isn’t your average ranunculus flower. Rather than having tight layers of petals, butterfly ranunculus typically have open petals that clearly show the center of the bloom. When fully open, they resemble anemones more than they do classic ranunculus.

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How to Keep Your Ranunculus Arrangement Around for Weeks

By far the best quality of ranunculus, butterfly variety included, is how long they can last in a vase. Before you make your selection at Trader Joe’s, look for blooms that have not fully opened yet—this will ensure you get the most life out of your flowers. 

Once brought home and in cool water, your ranunculus should start to open within a day or so. They can last well over a week with proper care; many ranunculus lovers say that their bouquets last for two weeks.

To keep your flowers looking brand new, always trim off all of the leaves below your vase’s waterline to prevent them from rotting. Cut your stems at a sharp angle and trim them every few days so the flowers can continue soaking up as much water as possible. You should change out your vase water every day if possible. 

Preserving Your Blooms

Because they have so many tight-layered petals, ranunculus are very easy to dry if you want to preserve your bouquet. Simply hang them upside down in a cool, dark place for a few weeks. Once dried, they should keep their color and shape for years to come.

Butterfly ranunculus have fewer petals and are more delicate; you may want to consider pressing this variety of ranunculus instead.