Species of the Month March 2022

Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris)

 

A golden harbinger of spring, the Marsh Marigold is also known as Kingcup, and can be found in damp and boggy conditions throughout Wales. The large yellow flowers and sturdy nature of the plant, along with the habitat, make it easy to identify. It could be mistaken for other yellow flowering plant species such as Buttercup, Lesser Celandine or Coltsfoot, but is noticeably larger and can form clumps. The leaves are heart shaped and waxy.

The species starts to flower in early spring, making it an important nectar source for pollinators. You can find more information and photos of Marsh Marigold from NatureSpot, Plantlife and Wikipedia.

Marsh Marigold is present in wet woodland, ditches and other suitable habitat throughout south east Wales, but we only hold 1537 records at SEWBReC; you can view the Wales wide distribution on Aderyn.

If you spot Marsh Marigold during March (or at any other time of year), please send us the record, ideally via SEWBReCORD or via the LERC Wales App. Instructions on how to submit records are available here.