Yes in my experience ranunculus dies back after blooming in spring . They will rot if in constant damp area.
And the gophers luv 'em...
Just to adding my unsolicited garden experience and 2 cents well maybe 5 cents....with trailing lobelia I have them planted in a constantly shaded area. Early am sun light. They don't like soggy feet. They bloom their lil hearts out til the heat of summer begins and soil dries out. The gophers and deer hate 'em.
Probably why they have lasted many years in the garden.
Today's pic it is 78' they have just about shut down.
