Marsh Marigold
Caltha palustris
Overview
Marsh Marigold is one of spring's most vivid flowers — large, gleaming gold flowers on robust, hollow-stemmed plants in wet dune slacks and ditches. In April, before most other plants have woken up, the Marsh Marigold patches glow brilliant gold in the low sunlight. Also known as Kingcup. It's one of the first nectar sources for early-emerging bees. The flowers are rich in pollen and are visited by small flies and beetles as well as bees.
At a Glance
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Habitat | Wet dune slack · Marsh ditch · Streamside · Wet woodland |
| UK population | Common in wet habitats throughout Britain; declining in some areas due to drainage |
| Sefton Coast | Present in wet dune slacks at Ainsdale NNR and wet areas behind the sea wall |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Wet dune slacks and drainage ditches at Ainsdale NNR and behind the sea wall. April spectacular.
Identification
Large, robust plant to 40cm. Large, round to kidney-shaped, dark green, glossy leaves. Large, brilliant golden-yellow flowers with 5–8 sepals (not true petals). Hollow, fleshy stems. In very wet or flooded ground.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Visit wet dune slacks at Ainsdale in April. The vivid gold flowers are unmistakeable in the early spring landscape.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species has a favourable conservation status in the UK and remains an important part of Sefton Coast biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Marsh Marigold related to the pot marigold of gardens?
No. Despite the name, Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris) is a member of the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae), while pot marigold (Calendula officinalis) is in the daisy family (Asteraceae). They are completely unrelated. The 'marigold' name for Caltha is thought to come from the Old English 'mersc-meargealla' or similar words meaning 'marsh gold'.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.