Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris)

The Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris), also known as kingcup, is a cheerful native perennial that brings a bright splash of yellow to ponds and damp areas in early spring. Growing up to 50cm tall, it features rounded, rich green leaves and clusters of deep yellow, buttercup-like flowers up to 4cm wide.

This easy-to-grow plant thrives in wet or boggy conditions and even prefers a bit of shade – just not too dark! A fantastic early pollinator plant, it provides vital food for bees and other insects when few other flowers are in bloom.

For extended blooms, simply cut it back after the first flowers fade, and you may get a second or even third flush of flowers in the same season. A must-have for any wildlife pond or damp garden.

Details

• Native: Yes
• Sun: Full sun to part shade
• Depth: 0 – 10
• Height max: 30cm
• Spread max: 30cm
• RHS PFP: Yes

Care Instructions

To keep your Marsh Marigold looking its best, cut back the foliage after flowering to encourage fresh growth and possibly a second round of blooms. Old leaves can turn grey, so trimming keeps it tidy. If dividing, the best time is in early spring (March/April) when new shoots appear.

Repotting Instructions

Can also be planted in very wet soil – do not allow to dry out.

9cm marginal plants require potting into a mesh basket. Place in a pond no deeper than 1/3 maximum recommended planting depth to allow the plants to establish.

1ltr marginal plants do not require repotting but will benefit from a bigger basket, there is no need to remove the mesh basket. Place in pond no deeper than 1/2 maximum recommended planting depth to allow the plants to establish. Plants over 60cm height growth will benefit from repotting into a larger mesh basket or should be planted in gravel to prevent them from falling over in a breeze.

3ltr and 5ltr plants do not require repotting; there is no need to remove the mesh basket. Place on the shelf of the pond at the required depth.