Contents
Description
Caltha is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Ranunculaceae. The genus contains around 20 species that are widely distributed throughout the Northern Hemisphere. The most well-known species is Caltha palustris, also known as Marsh Marigold or Kingcup. This herbaceous perennial plant is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been introduced to North America and is now widely naturalized there.Caltha plants are typically found in wet habitats such as marshes, fens, and swamps. They are known for their bright yellow flowers that bloom in early spring and are often mistaken for dandelions. The flowers are followed by seed pods that contain small black seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Caltha |
Appearance
Caltha plants typically have dark green, glossy leaves that are either heart-shaped or rounded. The leaves are usually 3-5 inches in diameter and grow in a rosette at the base of the plant. The stems of Caltha plants are hollow and can grow up to 2 feet tall.The flowers of Caltha plants are bright yellow and have 5-9 petals. They are usually 1-2 inches in diameter and bloom in early spring. The flowers are followed by seed pods that contain small black seeds.
Care Guide
Caltha plants are relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions.Water: Caltha plants prefer moist soil, so they should be watered regularly. However, they do not like to be waterlogged, so make sure the soil is well-draining.Fertilization: Caltha plants do not require fertilizer, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if you want to encourage growth.Soil: Caltha plants prefer moist, slightly acidic soil. They can tolerate a range of soil types, but they do not like heavy clay soil.Sunlight: Caltha plants prefer partial shade, but they can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist.Hardiness Zones: Caltha plants are hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Caltha plants are relatively pest and disease-resistant, but they can be susceptible to the following:Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves of Caltha plants. You can control them by using slug bait or setting up beer traps.Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves of Caltha plants. It can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Caltha plants are typically found in wet habitats such as marshes, fens, and swamps. They are native to Europe and Asia, but they have been introduced to North America and are now widely naturalized there.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Caltha plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Caltha plants can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist.Q: Do Caltha plants attract bees?
A: Yes, Caltha plants are pollinated by bees.Q: How often should I water my Caltha plant?
A: Caltha plants prefer moist soil, so they should be watered regularly. However, they do not like to be waterlogged, so make sure the soil is well-draining.Q: How do I propagate Caltha plants?
A: Caltha plants can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Caltha leptosepala
- Caltha natans
- Caltha palustris
- Caltha biflora
- Caltha howellii
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Caltha. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k740
- RHS. (n.d.). Caltha palustris. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/7180/caltha-palustris/details
- USDA. (n.d.). Caltha palustris L. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CAPA9
