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Marsh-marigold

©Zsuzsanna Bird

Marsh-marigold

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Scientific name: Caltha palustris
The large, golden flowers of marsh-marigold look like the cups of kings, hence its other name: 'kingcup'. It favours damp spots, like ponds, meadows, marshes, ditches and wet woodlands.

Top facts

Stats

Height: up to 50cm

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

March to July

About

The large, golden flowers of marsh-marigold certainly look like the cups of kings; indeed, the scientific name, Caltha, is derived from the Greek for 'goblet', and this plant is also commonly known as 'kingcup'. It is a widespread flower of ponds, marshes, damp meadows, ditches and wet woodland and is a conspicuous spring flower. Marsh-marigold is also a good plant to add to a wildlife-friendly pond, providing shelter for frogs and early nectar for insects.

What to look for

Marsh-marigold is a large buttercup-like flower that grows in wet places. It has very large, rounded, scalloped leaves.

Where to find

Widespread.

Habitats

Did you know?

The spring-flowering of marsh-marigold was considered a good omen on the Isle of Man, and the flowers, known as 'Mayflowers', were strewn on doorsteps. Today, marsh-marigold is still brought into the house in spring by the islanders.