Contents
Description
Caltha Leptosepala Subsp. Howellii is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is commonly known as Howell’s marsh marigold, and it is native to western North America, specifically in Alaska, British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California. The plant typically grows up to 1.5 feet tall and has shiny, dark green leaves with a heart-shaped base that can grow up to 4 inches in diameter. Its flowers are bright yellow and bloom in early spring, making this plant an excellent addition to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Caltha |
| Subspecies | Leptosepala subsp. Howellii |
Appearance
Caltha Leptosepala Subsp. Howellii has shiny, dark green leaves that can grow up to 4 inches in diameter with a heart-shaped base. The plant typically grows up to 1.5 feet tall and has bright yellow flowers that bloom in early spring. The flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and have five to nine petals. The plant has a clump-forming growth habit and can spread up to 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
- Water: Caltha Leptosepala Subsp. Howellii prefers consistently moist soil, so water regularly to keep the soil from drying out.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Caltha Leptosepala Subsp. Howellii prefers partial shade to full shade and can tolerate some morning sun.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Caltha Leptosepala Subsp. Howellii is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally fall prey to aphids, slugs, and snails. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and well-drained. Powdery mildew and root rot are the most common diseases that affect this plant. To prevent these diseases, ensure the plant has adequate airflow and drainage.
Habitat
Caltha Leptosepala Subsp. Howellii is native to wetlands, swamps, and marshes in western North America. It prefers moist soil and partial shade to full shade. The plant can also be found in meadows and along streambanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Caltha Leptosepala Subsp. Howellii grow in dry soil?
A: No, this plant prefers consistently moist soil.Q: What is the best time to plant Caltha Leptosepala Subsp. Howellii?
A: This plant can be planted in spring or fall.Q: Does Caltha Leptosepala Subsp. Howellii require full sun?
A: No, this plant prefers partial shade to full shade.Q: How often should Caltha Leptosepala Subsp. Howellii be fertilized?
A: This plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Caltha palustris (Marsh marigold)
- Caltha biflora (Two-flowered marsh marigold)
- Caltha natans (Water marigold)
- Caltha leptosepala (White marsh marigold)
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/callep/subsp_howellii/all.html
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CALE3
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CALE3
- https://www.bbg.org/gardening/article/marsh_marigold_a_gem_of_early_spring
