Caltha palustris

Caltha palustris: Golden Marsh Marigold

A radiant spring bloomer for moist and boggy areas, Caltha palustris, commonly known as marsh marigold, erupts in bright golden-yellow flowers just as the garden awakens from winter. Its cup-shaped blooms and glossy, heart-shaped green leaves bring cheer and early-season pollinator activity to wetland edges, streambanks, or rain gardens. This native perennial naturalizes beautifully in saturated soils, offering an authentic and vibrant touch to ecological plantings.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 30–40 cm
• Spread: 30–45 cm
• Flower Colour: Bright golden yellow
• Flowering Period: April to May
• Foliage: Glossy, heart-shaped green leaves
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist to wet, rich soil; tolerates seasonal flooding

Uses and Benefits: Caltha palustris is ideal for naturalized plantings near ponds, in lowland meadows, and along streambanks or wet ditches. It’s a valuable source of early nectar for bees and is especially appreciated in habitat gardens. Its ability to thrive in saturated conditions makes it a go-to for difficult wet spots where other perennials struggle.

Companion Plants: For a naturalized wetland look, pair Caltha palustris with Iris versicolor, Carex pensylvanica, and Ligularia 'Little Rocket'. Together they create a dynamic tapestry of seasonal bloom and texture in moisture-rich environments.

Care Instructions: Plant in consistently moist to wet soil with good organic content. It tolerates full sun in wet sites but benefits from partial shade in drier areas. No pruning is necessary—cut back old growth in early spring. It may go dormant in summer if soil dries out too much.

History: Native to wetlands and damp meadows across North America and Europe, Caltha palustris has long been admired for its early bloom and adaptability to saturated soils. Historically used in traditional medicine, it remains a valuable component of native wetland restoration and biodiversity plantings.

Final Thoughts: Cheerful and utterly reliable in wet soils, Caltha palustris welcomes spring with golden light—bringing pollinators, native beauty, and ecological integrity to the soggiest parts of the garden.