Giant Marsh Marigold Caltha polypetala Hochst. ex Lorent
ABOUT
Caltha polypetala, commonly known as giant marsh marigold or kingcup, is a perennial plant that typically grows in moist habitats. This plant is characterized by its shiny, dark green, heart-shaped leaves that create a lush foliage backdrop. The leaves are broad, with a smooth or slightly serrated edge, and a waxy surface which often appears glossy, especially when wet. The most striking feature of the giant marsh marigold is its flowers, which are large and showy with a rich, golden yellow color. Each bloom is composed of five to nine petal-like sepals that encircle a central cluster of numerous stamens that are also bright yellow. These flowers are borne singly or in small clusters atop long stems that rise above the foliage, creating a contrast between the dark leaves and the bright blossoms. The flowers and leaves of the giant marsh marigold arise directly from the plant's root system, which consists of thick rhizomes that have the capability of spreading and giving the plant a robust, crowded appearance. The plant tends to have a mounding habit and can form a substantial clump in the right growing conditions. During its flowering season, the kingcup creates an eye-catching display with its sunny blooms. When not in flower, the plant's foliage alone provides a rich, green presence in its native environment. Overall, the giant marsh marigold is a striking plant that appeals to many gardeners and nature enthusiasts for its vibrant flowers and lush leaves.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Giant Marsh Marigold, Large Marsh Marigold, Kingcup
Common names
Psychrophila polypetala (Hochst. ex Lorent.) Á. Löve & D. Löve.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as kingcup or giant marsh marigold (Caltha polypetala) contains toxic glycosides, specifically protoanemonin, that can be harmful if ingested. Contact with the skin can also cause irritation or dermatitis for some individuals. If parts of the plant are ingested, symptoms of poisoning may include irritation of the mouth and gastrointestinal tract, pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe cases can lead to more significant complications such as heart problems, convulsions, or even coma, although such extreme reactions are rare. It is generally advised to avoid consuming any part of the kingcup or giant marsh marigold.
To pets
The kingcup or giant marsh marigold (Caltha polypetala) possesses toxicity to pets due to the presence of protoanemonin, a harmful glycoside. If a pet ingests part of this plant, it can suffer from symptoms similar to those in humans, including mouth and gastrointestinal tract irritation, excessive salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea. With significant ingestion, more severe symptoms like heart issues and convulsions can occur, which can be fatal. Owners should keep pets away from the kingcup and seek veterinary assistance if any part of the plant is ingested.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Ethiopia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Caltha polypetala, commonly known as the Giant Marsh Marigold, is often used in water gardens and pond margins for its attractive glossy foliage and large, bright yellow flowers.
- Wildlife Habitat: The plant provides shelter and breeding grounds for aquatic organisms and amphibians.
- Food Source for Pollinators: Flowers of the Giant Marsh Marigold offer nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinating insects in early spring when other food sources are scarce.
- Soil Stabilization: The root system helps to stabilize soil in wetland areas, reducing erosion and improving water quality.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Caltha polypetala, commonly known as Giant Marsh Marigold, is traditionally used in some cultures as a yellow dye for fabrics, deriving its color from the flower petals.
- The leaves of the Giant Marsh Marigold have sometimes been used as a wrapping material for food during cooking processes, although they must be handled with care due to potential toxicity when raw.
- Some gardeners use Giant Marsh Marigold as a companion plant in wetland garden areas to support a diverse ecosystem and attract beneficial insects.
- Giant Marsh Marigold can be planted for soil erosion control in wet areas due to its dense root system that holds the soil together.
- During festive occasions, flowers of the Giant Marsh Marigold have been used to adorn homes and public places in certain regions, especially where it grows natively.
- In landscape design, Giant Marsh Marigold is strategically placed to create a naturalized look around ponds and streams.
- Farmers sometimes grow Giant Marsh Marigold near water sources as a nontoxic way to deter certain types of pests from crops, due to its natural robustness.
- The Giant Marsh Marigold is used in educational settings to help students learn about wetland ecosystems and the specific needs of wetland plants.
- In artistic creations, the vivid yellow flowers of the Giant Marsh Marigold are used in floral arrangements and botanical art for their striking appearance.
- The seed pods of Giant Marsh Marigold have been utilized in traditional crafts for their unique shape and texture.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Caltha polypetala, commonly known as Giant Marsh Marigold, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Giant Marsh Marigold is not used in astrology practice.
Plant SymbolismI'm sorry, but there is no widely recognized symbolic meaning for Caltha polypetala Hochst. ex Lorent., commonly known as the Giant Marsh Marigold. This plant does not have a strong presence in cultural or historical symbolism that is well documented or commonly acknowledged. Therefore, I cannot provide a list of symbolic meanings in HTML format or otherwise for this particular plant.
WaterThe giant marsh marigold (Caltha polypetala) thrives in consistently moist soil and should be watered whenever the top inch of soil feels dry, which may mean watering once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. In general, it's best to provide the plant with about one to two gallons of water per week to maintain ideal moisture levels, but be careful not to overwater, as standing water can lead to root rot. During hotter and drier periods, increase the frequency accordingly to prevent the soil from drying out completely.
LightGiant marsh marigold prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade. It is ideal to place it in a spot where it can receive morning sunlight and afternoon shade to protect it from harsh midday sun. Avoid deep shade, as too little light can hinder flowering and weaken the plant.
TemperatureThe giant marsh marigold is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures once established; however, it grows best in temperatures between 50°F and 70°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about -30°F and maximum temperatures up to 80°F, but consistently extreme temperatures can be stressful to the plant.
PruningPruning the giant marsh marigold is typically done to remove spent flowers and any yellow or damaged foliage to maintain the plant's appearance and encourage new growth. The best time for pruning is after blooming has finished, usually in late summer or early fall. Pruning is not a frequent requirement, however, and can be done annually or as needed to tidy up the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Kingcup or Marsh Marigold (Caltha polypetala) is one that is consistently moist and rich in organic matter. A mixture of loam, peat, and sand can provide the right consistency and nutrients. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic, around 6.0 to 7.0, to mimic the plant's natural boggy habitat.
RepottingKingcup or Marsh Marigold (Caltha polypetala) should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. However, since they thrive in wet conditions, frequent repotting is not necessary unless the plant has outgrown its current pot or the soil has become depleted.
Humidity & MistingKingcup or Marsh Marigold (Caltha polypetala) prefers high humidity conditions, akin to its natural marshy and boggy habitats. The best humidity level for this plant is around 70-80%, which helps to keep the soil consistently moist and supports its lush, aquatic growth habit.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide moist soil and indirect light for indoor Kingcup.
Outdoor
Plant Kingcup in moist soil, full sun to part shade.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleCaltha polypetala, commonly known as Giant Marsh Marigold, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon finding suitable wet and marshy soil conditions, germinates to emerge as a small seedling. The seedling grows into a vegetative plant, developing a rosette of rounded, heart-shaped leaves and a robust root system. As the plant matures, it produces distinctive, large yellow buttercup-like flowers in the spring, which are pollinated by insects, leading to the formation of fruit that contains numerous seeds. After pollination and seed set, the plant enters a period of senescence during late summer, where above-ground parts die back while the rootstock remains dormant over winter. With the arrival of the next spring, the plant regrows from its rootstock or existing seeds germinate to continue the cycle. This perennial plant can thus spread both by vegetative growth and by seed production, maintaining its presence in its habitat.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
The most popular method of propagating Caltha polypetala, commonly known as Giant Marsh Marigold, is through division. This is typically done in the spring or fall when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the root clumps into smaller sections, each with at least one growing point or shoot. These divisions should then be replanted at the same depth they were originally growing at, spaced about 12 to 24 inches (roughly 30 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growth. After planting, the divisions should be watered thoroughly to establish them in their new locations. This method is efficient and maintains the parent plant's characteristics, ensuring a clone of the original.
