Native To State: YES
Naturally Occurring: YES
Description
Caltha palustris (Marsh Marigold, Cow Slips) is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. Here are some key identification characteristics:
Appearance: Marsh marigold is a lovely and showy herb with bright yellow flowers that add a burst of color to wetland areas.
Leaves: The leaves of Caltha palustris are rounded and heart-shaped with toothed margins. They are glossy and often have a waxy appearance.
Flowers: The plant produces large, solitary flowers with five to nine shiny, buttercup-like petals. The flowers have a central cluster of yellow stamens surrounding a prominent green pistil.
Blooming Period: Marsh marigold blooms in early to mid-spring, typically from April to May, depending on the region and climate.
Habitat: This species is native to various regions of North America and can be found in wetlands, swamps, marshes, and along the edges of streams and ponds. It prefers moist and waterlogged soils.
Distribution: Marsh marigold is found in regions ranging from northern Canada to the northeastern and central parts of the United States.
Conservation: Marsh marigold is not considered a threatened species, and its presence is an indicator of healthy wetland ecosystems.
Other Species: Caltha palustris is the sole species within the Caltha genus.
Marsh marigold is celebrated for its striking yellow flowers and its ability to thrive in wet environments. Its bright blooms make it a popular choice for ornamental plantings in water gardens and landscape designs that feature damp or boggy areas. Additionally, it serves as an essential early-season nectar source for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to the overall biodiversity of wetland habitats.
Occurrence
Wet areas along crick and some in back 40 spring area.