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Description
Caltha Palustris Var. Alba, also known as White Marsh Marigold, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). It is native to North America and can be found growing in marshes, wet meadows, and along stream banks. It is an aquatic plant that can grow up to 18 inches tall and 24 inches wide. It has dark green, glossy leaves and produces white, star-shaped flowers that bloom in early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Caltha |
Appearance
The Caltha Palustris Var. Alba has dark green, glossy leaves that are heart-shaped and toothed. The leaves can grow up to 4 inches in diameter. The plant produces white, star-shaped flowers that have 5-9 petals and can grow up to 2 inches in diameter. The flowers bloom in early spring and are followed by seed pods that are about 1 inch long. The plant can grow up to 18 inches tall and 24 inches wide.
Care Guide
Water: The Caltha Palustris Var. Alba needs to be kept moist at all times. It is an aquatic plant and will thrive in wet conditions.
Fertilization: The plant does not need to be fertilized. It can obtain all the nutrients it needs from the soil and water.
Soil: The plant prefers loamy, well-drained soil. It can also grow in clay soil but will not do well in sandy soil.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade but will not flower as well.
Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Caltha Palustris Var. Alba is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by slugs and snails. To prevent damage from these pests, apply a slug and snail bait around the plant.
Habitat
The Caltha Palustris Var. Alba is native to North America and can be found growing in marshes, wet meadows, and along stream banks. It prefers wet conditions and can grow in water up to 6 inches deep.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Caltha Palustris Var. Alba poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested. It is important to keep the plant away from children and pets.
Q: Can the Caltha Palustris Var. Alba be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it is kept moist and has enough space to grow.
Q: When should I prune the Caltha Palustris Var. Alba?
A: The plant does not need to be pruned. However, you can remove any dead or damaged leaves or flowers to improve its appearance.
Q: Can the Caltha Palustris Var. Alba be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by dividing the roots in early spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Caltha Palustris (Marsh Marigold)
- Caltha Palustris Var. Multiplex (Giant Marsh Marigold)
- Caltha Palustris Var. Polypetala (Marsh Marigold Double)
References
- “Caltha Palustris var. alba.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287602.
- “Caltha Palustris var. alba.” PlantFiles. Accessed June 22, 2021. http://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1313/.
- “Caltha Palustris var. alba – White Marsh Marigold.” Plants for a Future. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/plant.aspx?LatinName=Caltha+palustris+var.+alba.
