Quick answer: Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) is native to 28 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 04 Nov 2026.
Photo: Jasper33, Wikimedia Commons (PUBLIC DOMAIN)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | High water, Moist-Wet |
| Soil | Muddy, humus-rich soil |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-May |
| Height | Up to 2 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Attracts birds, conspicuous flowers, all parts poisonous in quantity |
Plant juices can cause blistering/inflammation on skin or mucous membranes on contact, and gastric illness if ingested. Leaves are poisonous part, toxic mainly in large quantities. Symptoms: burning throat, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, dizziness, fainting, convulsions. Toxic compound: protoanemonin
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (04 Nov 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 04 Nov 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Marsh marigold
Where is Marsh marigold native?
Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) is native to 28 states across the Northeast, Midwest, South and West. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Marsh marigold bloom?
Marsh marigold blooms Apr-May. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Marsh marigold need?
Light: Part Shade, Shade. Water: High water, Moist-Wet. Soil: Muddy, humus-rich soil. Mature height: Up to 2 ft tall.
Is Marsh marigold good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts birds, conspicuous flowers, all parts poisonous in quantity.
Is Marsh marigold deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Marsh marigold is tolerates shade and handles wet soil.
Is Marsh marigold toxic?
Plant juices can cause blistering/inflammation on skin or mucous membranes on contact, and gastric illness if ingested. Leaves are poisonous part, toxic mainly in large quantities. Symptoms: burning throat, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, dizziness, fainting, convulsions. Toxic compound: protoanemonin.
Where can I buy real Marsh marigold seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 04 Nov 2026. Look for the scientific name Caltha palustris on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Marsh marigold.
- Blue vervain Verbena hastata
- White meadowsweet Spiraea alba
- Jack-in-the-pulpit Arisaema triphyllum
- Great blue lobelia Lobelia siphilitica
- Steeplebush Spiraea tomentosa
- Cinnamon fern Osmunda cinnamomea
Also listed under
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