Caltha palustris (Marsh Marigold)
Botanical name: Caltha palustris
Common names: Marsh Marigold, Cowflock, Cowslip, Kingcup
Family: Ranunculaceae
Origin: North America
USDA Zone: 3-7
Plant form: Small
Mature height: 2-5 ft
Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade
Cold tolerance: Tolerates light freezing to about 30°F for short periods (mature plants). Young plants must be protected.
Watering: Regular; bog or aquatic
Flower color: Yellow, orange
Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing
Irritating or toxic: Irritating
Flood tolerance: High
Ethnomedical: Ethnomedical plant, traditionally used in folk or indigenous medicineCaltha palustris, commonly known as the marsh marigold, is a small plant native to North America typically growing to between 2-5 feet in height. This species requires a location in full sun to semi-shade and moist soil that is bog-like or aquatic, along with regular water. This plant will produce yellow and orange, daisy-like flowers from mid-spring through to mid-fall.
Although this species is mostly harmless and attractive, it can be irritating to some people with sensitive skin, and various parts of the plant have been used for ethnomedical purposes throughout history. The roots and leaves of the Marsh Marigold have been used in traditional medicine to treat colds and sores, as an aid in childbirth, to induce vomiting and as a protection against love charms and constipation. However, it should be noted that the leaves of the plant are poisonous - especially to livestock and small animals.
It can be grown in USDA Zone 3-7. Those in colder regions wanting to grow this species in pots should ensure that they are in a sheltered location and, once established, the plant should be given protection during severe cold weather. Furthermore, soil should be kept evenly moist throughout the growing season.
