loading

Caltha polypetala

giant marsh marigold (syn. Caltha polypetala Hochst. ex Lorent)

Product Image
This robust herbaceous perennial, a larger counterpart to the native marsh marigold, stands out with clusters of brilliant golden flowers, each adorned with a mass of showy stamens, reaching an impressive 5cm (2”) in size. Blooming from early spring to summer, these vibrant blossoms steal the spotlight above the rounded green leaves, which gradually decrease in size along the stem.

Thriving in pond margins and bog gardens, Caltha polypetala rapidly forms expansive clumps, and is noteworthy for its resilience against deer.

How to care for Caltha polypetala:

Plant Caltha in consistently damp or boggy ground, ideally in humus-rich, neutral to slightly acidic soil at the edge of a pond or stream. It can also be grown in shallow water up to 10cm (4in) deep, using our aquatic basket option to help contain roots.

Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot. Water boggy situated plants well during dry spells, especially in the first year after planting. After flowering, cut back spent growth to encourage a possible second flush in autumn. Every few years, lift and divide overcrowded clumps in late spring to maintain vigour.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
1m
Eventual spread:
0.6m
Position:

Full sun / light shade

Rate of growth:

Fast-growing

Soil:

Aquatic / Reliably damp or boggy

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

  • InformationThis pond plant dies right back in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

Product options

Product options image
PL30007474
1 litre aquatic pot
£21.99
available to order from summer
Unavailable
Product options image
PL30007423
3 × 1 litre aquatic pots
£39.99 £13.33 each
available to order from summer
Unavailable
Product options image
PL30007475
3 litre aquatic pot
£35.99
available to order from summer
Unavailable
1
Delivery options (pick your preferred option at checkout)
Standard Delivery£5.99

Goes well with

Become an RHS Member today and save 25% on your first year