Water Plants

Caltha palustris

Marsh marigold

Caltha palustris

Bright yellow spring flowers shine above rounded glossy leaves at the water’s edge. This cold-hardy wetland perennial is useful for a bog garden or soggy bed; afternoon shade can help its foliage last through summer.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to part shade
Pond placement: Bog garden, wet bed or pond edge; not a deep-water plant.
Winter care: Hardy perennial locally; keep its root zone moist.
Mature size: 12–18 in. tall
Water: Constantly moist to wet soil
Bloom: Yellow; early spring.

Sizes & prices

6"$36.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

Ask about this plant

Select a section to expand.

Resistance & tolerances

Wet soil: Excellent tolerance of wet ground.

Native range

Native range / parentage: Native to northern North America. Species native to Kentucky.
Tristate native status: Species native to Kentucky.

Keep in mind: Harmful if eaten; sap can irritate skin.

Water garden care

Planting method: Plant in constantly wet ground or a bog container.
Watering: Keep roots consistently moist.
Division: Divide clumps when dormant.
Summer: May become dormant during hot, sunny weather.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

Kew Science, Plants of the World Online

Photo: H. Zell · CC BY-SA 3.0

Reviewed September 27, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.