Caltha palustris plena is a double-flowered form of the native marsh marigold. In early spring it produces fully double, bright yellow, long-lasting flowers above rounded, glossy dark green leaves.

Double marsh marigold at a glance

Botanical name Caltha palustris plena
Common name Double marsh marigold, double kingcup
Plant type Clump-forming perennial; dies back in winter
Height and spread About 20–40 cm tall, 30–50 cm wide
Flowers Bright yellow, fully double, March and April
Position Full sun
Soil Rich, wet, boggy soil or very shallow water
Pond depth 0–5 cm of water over the crown
Hardiness RHS H7 – very hardy (below -20°C)
Native to Garden form of the UK native marsh marigold

Where to plant double marsh marigold

  • The shallow edge of a garden pond, 0–5 cm deep
  • Wet, boggy ground beside a pond or stream
  • Small ponds, where its compact size suits

How to plant and care for it

Plant in spring or summer in rich, wet soil in full sun. Cutting back the old foliage after flowering usually brings a lighter second flush of flowers in autumn.

Is it good for wildlife?

The single marsh marigold is an early nectar plant. Double flowers generally offer insects less nectar and pollen, so choose the single form if wildlife is your main aim.

Is marsh marigold poisonous?

Yes. The leaves are poisonous if eaten and the sap can irritate skin, so wear gloves when handling it.

Which size should I buy?

Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Pond depth: 0 - 5cm

Light: Full sun

Hardiness: Hardy

Height and spread: 20 - 40cm tall, 30 - 50cm wide

Planting and flowering months are shown in the calendar under the photos.

Bare root (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants sent without a pot or compost, ready to plant straight away. The most economical way to plant a group.

Potted (9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants growing in our recycled, peat-free compost made in Lincolnshire. Larger sizes give a faster display.

Pack of 3 (7 cm bare-root, 9 cm bare-root, 1 litre bare-root, 3 litre bare-root): three plants of the chosen size at a lower price per plant.

2x Pot & Compost: two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Sizes shown with a line through them are currently unavailable.

At Lincs Plants, we strive to provide fast and reliable shipping to ensure your plants arrive in perfect condition. We offer 1-3 day shipping through a variety of dispatch methods to suit your needs.

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