Trollius, commonly known as Globe Flower, is a genus of about 30 species of mostly herbaceous perennials in the family Ranunculaceae, native to Europe, Asia and Americas.
These plants have finely dissected, dark green foliage and large, buttercup-shaped or ball-shaped flowers atop tall stems. They bloom in spring and summer, producing wonderful and bright flowers.
The genus name comes from the German word “trollblume”, which means “globular flower”, and refers to the multitude of sepals that surround the petals, forming a round globe shape.
Trollius is a symbol of gratitude.
These plants are popular food for many insects, especially moths. However, only small insects manage to enter to pollinate.
Trollius europaeus is pollinated by several species of the seed-eating pollinators – Chiastocheta flies. They were shown to be the sole pollinator of their host plant. They pollinate the plant, but also lay eggs on the carpels. Other Trollius species, such as Trollius pumilus, Trollius ranunculinus and Trollius laxus, are not visited at all by the Chiastocheta flies. These species are likely to be pollinated by a wide range of insects.
Trollius has purgative properties and is used in the treatment of certain maladies.
Some species are popular ornamental plants, grown for their large flower heads.
