Marsh Marigold
Caltha palustris
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Description
Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to marshes, fens, ditches, and wet woodlands in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Known for its bright yellow, buttercup-like flowers that bloom in early spring, it serves as an important early nectar source for pollinators. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, Marsh Marigold plays a crucial role in wetland restoration projects and water management systems due to its preference for wet, boggy conditions. It enhances biodiversity and supports wildlife, especially in riparian buffers and wetland edges. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine and as a natural dye source. In a food forest, it occupies the herbaceous layer, contributing to soil moisture retention and providing habitat for beneficial insects. Companion plants include other moisture-loving species like Iris pseudacorus and Carex species.
Growing Details
Marsh Marigold thrives in wet, boggy soils with a preference for slightly acidic to neutral pH. Soil preparation should include the incorporation of organic matter to enhance moisture retention. Mulching with straw or leaf litter can help maintain soil moisture. It can be propagated by division in early spring or by seed. Companion plants include moisture-loving species such as Iris pseudacorus and Carex species. Common mistakes include planting in areas that dry out, leading to poor growth. Opt
Edible Parts
Leaves
Flowers
Tags
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Colouring
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Caltha palustris</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to temperate regions of the Northern H
applicable geo region: Northern Hemisphere
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of March for 60 days
Harvest:
middle
of May for 30 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(2/5)
edible uses: Young leaves and flower buds can be cooked and eaten, but they must be boiled in several changes of water to remove toxins. They are typically available in early spring and should be harvested before flowering for the best flavor.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Marsh Marigold has been used in folk medicine for its purported diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its use is limited due to its potential toxicity. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before any medicinal use.
health concerns: All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested raw, containing protoanemonin, which can cause skin irritation and gastrointestinal distress. Proper preparation is essential to avoid toxicity.
other uses: The plant can be used in natural dye production, yielding a yellow dye. It is also beneficial for erosion control along water bodies.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Caltha palustris
common names: Kingcup; Cowslip; Water Buttercup
family: Ranunculaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Caltha
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity: High
light demands: High
root type: Shallow
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(4/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 0.5 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Heavy
pH preference:
Acid
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Marsh Marigold thrives in wet, boggy soils with a preference for slightly acidic to neutral pH. Soil preparation should include the incorporation of organic matter to enhance moisture retention. Mulching with straw or leaf litter can help maintain soil moisture. It can be propagated by division in early spring or by seed. Companion plants include moisture-loving species such as Iris pseudacorus and Carex species. Common mistakes include planting in areas that dry out, leading to poor growth. Opt
Potential Disturbances: Generally pest-free, but can be susceptible to slug and snail damage. Natural pest management includes encouraging predators like frogs and toads, and using barriers such as crushed eggshells or copper tape. Companion planting with garlic or chives can help deter slugs.
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