Yellow marsh marigold - Caltha palustris (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Yellow marsh marigold

Also known as: Marsh marigold, May blob, Molly-blob, Boots, Bull flower, Crowfoot, Yellow gowan

Yellow marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) is a perennial wildflower that grows from 30 to 91 cm tall. It produces bright yellow buttercup-like blossoms that bloom from spring to summer. It is commonly found growing in moist woodlands and boggy areas. It is a favorite of grazing cows and attracts butterflies and bees. Its seeds can be collected after blooming for replanting in other locations.

Scientific classification

Species

Yellow marsh marigold (Caltha palustris)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

10 cm to 80 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Yellow marsh marigold

Attributes of Yellow marsh marigold

Growth Rate

With a slow growth rate, yellow marsh marigold primarily develops during spring. This pace allows for steady accumulation of resources, leading to robust leaf production and flowering in this period. Slow growth also ensures yellow marsh marigold's resilience to potential environmental stressors. While the growth slightly varies across seasons, spring remains a critical growth phase. Horticulturally, yellow marsh marigold's slow growth allows ample time for development, ensuring robustness and a distinct floral display.

Distribution of Yellow marsh marigold

Distribution Map

Yellow marsh marigold boasts a natural presence in the temperate and subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere, dotting landscapes across Europe, Asia, and North America. Its marshy and wetland habitats have seen this plant thrive and extend its reach through cultivation beyond its native expanses, enriching similar climatic zones worldwide.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Marshes, fens, ditches, wet alder woods

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The vibrant yellow marsh marigold adds a pop of color to watery wildlife or bog gardens. It draws in lots of butterflies and bees where it grows. This flowering plant does best when planted in full sun in the shallow water of garden ponds, or in boggy, wet soil. You can even grow it in baskets that hang in the water.

Symbolism

Wealth and power of kings

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Yellow marsh marigold, including the following common varieties :

Marsh-marigold 'Flore Pleno'Marsh-marigold 'Alba'

Toxicity

Yellow marsh marigold is highly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. All parts, especially the leaves and older parts, contain protoanemonin causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and convulsions. Handle with care to avoid skin irritation. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if pets ingest any part of the plant.

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Quickly Identify Yellow marsh marigold

Bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers with 5-9 petal-like sepals (1-1.5 inches / 2.5-3.8 cm wide).

Heart or kidney-shaped, dark green, glossy leaves (3-7 inches / 7.6-17.8 cm wide).

Low-growing plant reaching 1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm) with branching rhizomes in wetlands.

Distinctive green follicle fruit (0.5-0.8 inches / 1.3-2 cm) that dehisces to disperse seeds.

Hollow, hairless stem with glossy, vibrant green color (0.2-0.4 inches / 5-10 mm diameter).

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Care Guide for Yellow marsh marigold

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Yellow marsh marigold thrives in moist soil, reflecting its wetland origin. It requires weekly watering to maintain dampness and is often grown in rain gardens, showcasing its ability to tolerate periodic flooding and adapt to water-abundant environments.

Fertilize: For optimal growth and blooms, yellow marsh marigold requires balanced fertilizer during the growing season, applied every 4-6 weeks in spring/summer. Reduce feeding in dormancy, avoid overfertilization, and always water thoroughly after application to promote nutrient distribution and enhance vigor in nutrient-poor soils.

Pruning: Noted for its bright yellow flowers, yellow marsh marigold thrives in moist environments. Prune in early to late spring to enhance shape, flower display, and air circulation while reducing disease risk. Remove dead stems and overcrowded areas, consulting horticultural guides for detailed care instructions.

Propagation: Yellow marsh marigold propagates easily by sowing seeds in Spring. Successful germination and seedling emergence require a consistently moist growing medium for optimal propagation outcomes.

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