Marsh marigold

There are 10 species in this genus. Caltha palustris, better known as the marsh marigold, is the only one particularly relevant to the prairies. Found native throughout the northern hemisphere, this gorgeous plant grows 1-2 ft. tall and wide. It has glossy, rounded to kidney shaped leaves and an explosion of golden flowers in early spring.

On the prairies, it usually flowers in May and attracts the first insects of the year. It’s an excellent pollen and nectar source. It flowers for about two weeks and will happily bloom through light snow and cold.

When you find it offered for sale at your local garden centre, it is almost always for sale along with the pond and water plants. While marsh marigold can indeed grow in shallow water, it is happier in a poorly drained, perpetually moist site.

It adapts perfectly to most garden situations though it will definitely go dormant if it becomes too dry. It rapidly forms large clumps that are easily divided, and it is so welcome in the spring time that we think more gardeners should know about it.

There are several excellent double flowered forms of it as well. Like most members of its family, it is poisonous. Some people find that the leaves are irritating to the skin, so be sure to wear gloves when working with it.

Curiously, moose are said to be fond of eating this plant.