Kynnellisiä

Kynnellisiä is a Finnish term that broadly refers to plant species belonging to the genus Ranunculus. The genus name itself comes from the Latin word for "little frog," a likely reference to the fact that many species are found in damp or wet environments. In Finland, the most common and widely recognized species is the Ranunculus acris, commonly known as meadow buttercup. Other native species include Ranunculus repens (creeping buttercup) and Ranunculus glacialis (mountain buttercup).

These plants are typically herbaceous, perennial, and often characterized by their bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers. The number of petals can vary among species, but they are commonly five-petaled. Leaves are often palmately lobed or divided. Habitat preferences range from meadows and fields to stream banks, bogs, and even alpine regions.

Many Ranunculus species contain acrid, poisonous compounds called protoanemonin, which can cause skin irritation or blistering upon contact and are toxic if ingested. While often considered weeds in agricultural settings due to their toxicity and potential to spread, some species have historically been used in folk medicine, though this is not recommended due to the inherent dangers. The vibrant yellow flowers of kynnellisiä are a familiar sight in the Finnish summer landscape, particularly in unimproved grasslands.