marsh marigold (Caltha palustris), also called cowslip, G.J. Chafaris/EB Inc.perennial herbaceous plant of the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) native to wetlands in
marsh marigold (Caltha palustris), also called cowslip, G.J. Chafaris/EB Inc.perennial herbaceous plant of the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) native to wetlands in Europe and North America. It is grown in boggy wild gardens.
The stem of a marsh marigold is hollow, and the leaves are kidney-shaped, heart-shaped, or round. The glossy flowers are 2.5 to 5 cm (1 to 2 inches) across and have pink, white, or yellow sepals. Petals are absent. The stems, leaves, and roots are sometimes cooked and eaten as a vegetable, although the raw plant is poisonous. The cooked and pickled flower buds are a substitute for capers.