Marsh Marigold
Caltha palustris
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Pl. 5220 — Caltha palustris
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IOverview
Overview
Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris) is a perennial forb or herb that thrives in wet environments across a wide range of habitats from Afghanistan to Alaska and from Asia to Europe. Known for its edible parts—flowers, leaves, and roots—it has been used as a food source in many regions. This plant grows best in light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil with a pH between 4.9 and 6.8, and it prefers wet conditions. Marsh Marigold is hardy in zones 3-7 and can reach heights of about 0.3 meters. Its distinctive golden-yellow flowers are a notable feature, making it an ornamental addition to gardens and natural landscapes alike.
Quick answers
What is Marsh Marigold?
Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris) is a perennial forb or herb that thrives in wet environments across a wide range of habitats from Afghanistan to Alaska and from Asia to Europe. Known for its edible parts—flowers, leaves, and roots—it has been used as a food source in many regions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Marsh Marigold thrives in wet conditions and prefers light to heavy soils with a pH between 4.9 and 6.8. It is hardy in temperate regions, typically growing in zones 3-7. This perennial plant requires partial shade to full sun and should be watered regularly. For propagation, division or seed sowing can be used effectively. Harvest edible parts such as flowers, leaves, and roots. Plant it in a location with moist soil for best results.
Light
4/10
Water
Wet, Water
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-7
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
Soil pH
4.9–6.8
For first-time growers
How to grow Marsh Marigold for the first time
7steps
Start with simple soil and basic care for a successful Marsh Marigold garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot, quality potting mix, and a sunny spot in your garden.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 4.9 and 6.8, ensuring it's moist but not waterlogged.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from nursery pots into your garden or start seeds indoors before planting outdoors.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, avoiding overwatering which can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular watering during dry spells and mulch around plants to retain moisture. Deadhead flowers for continuous bloom.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent blooms to encourage new growth and maintain a neat appearance.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesRoot
Edible uses: The marsh marigold is edible and can be consumed in various forms. Its flowers, leaves, and roots are all usable. The flowers can be eaten raw or cooked, while the leaves and roots are typically prepared by boiling or steaming. These parts can also be dried for later use.
Other uses:DyeGround cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe11 regions
native (11)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyRussiaUnited Kingdom
Asia3 regions
native (3)AfghanistanChinaIndia
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Aleutian Is., Altay, Amur, Baltic States, British Columbia, Buryatiya, Chita, Connecticut, Czechoslovakia, Delaware, East Himalaya, Føroyar
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 5220e99a-865e-42b9-9e80-be471a069871
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