Marsh Marigold
Caltha palustris
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7
Water
High
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Herbaceous perennial
Native To
North America, Europe, Asia
Toxicity
All parts are toxic if ingested raw.
The Story
Plant Bio
Caltha palustris is a clump-forming, herbaceous perennial that thrives in wet, boggy soils. It features glossy, heart-shaped green leaves and brilliant, buttercup-like yellow flowers in early spring. As one of the earliest native wetland plants to bloom, it provides a vital nectar source for emerging pollinators and brings cheerful color to water margins before other plants have emerged.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a location with full sun and constantly wet soil
- Amend soil with compost to improve moisture retention
- Dig a hole as deep as the container
- Place the plant in the hole with the crown at soil level
- Backfill with soil and water in thoroughly
- Ensure the soil never dries out, especially during establishment
Pro Tip
Plant in submerged pots in water gardens to control spread and simplify maintenance.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide consistent, ample moisture; this plant loves wet feet.
- Allow it to self-seed for naturalized colonies in appropriate areas.
- Remove yellowing leaves after flowering as the plant may go dormant in summer heat.
Don't
- Do not let the soil dry out, even for a short period.
- Avoid planting in deep shade, which reduces flowering.
- Do not ingest any part of the plant, as it is toxic when raw.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Marsh Marigold questions
What zones can Marsh Marigold grow in?
Marsh Marigold is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Marsh Marigold deer resistant?
Yes — Marsh Marigold is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Marsh Marigold bloom?
Marsh Marigold typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Marsh Marigold need full sun?
Marsh Marigold does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Grow Marsh Marigold with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
