Caltha palustris
marsh marigold
A rhizomatous, marginal aquatic perennial to 50cm, with rounded, rich green leaves and clusters of deep yellow flowers 4cm in width
Other common names
bootsbrave bassinets
see morebull flower
cow lily
crazy Beth
crowfoot
drunkards
goldes
goldings
golds
gools
horse blob
kingcup
mare blob
marybuds
May blob
meadow buttercup
meadow cowslip
meadow gowan
meadow-bright
publican's cloak
publicans-and-sinners
soldier's buttons
water boots
water buttercup
water cowslip
water dragon
water goggles
water gowan
yellow gowan
gold y gors
Synonyms
Caltha cornutaSize
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Yellow | Green | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Green | |||
Autumn | Green | |||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Caltha are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with simple, usually heart-shaped leaves and cup-shaped yellow or white flowers in early spring
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Temp. N. Hemis.
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in an open site in rich boggy soil at the water's edge in full sun. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown as soon as ripe or by division in late summer or early spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
Cut back after flowering
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Powdery mildews may be a problem
Get involved
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