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Description
Caltha Natans, also known as Floating Marsh Marigold, is a perennial aquatic plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. This plant is native to North America and is typically found growing in marshes, ponds, and slow-moving streams. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer, making it a popular addition to water gardens and ponds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Caltha |
Appearance
Caltha Natans has bright green, rounded leaves that are approximately 1-3 inches in diameter. The leaves float on the surface of the water and are connected to the stem by long petioles. The stems can reach a length of up to 3 feet and produce yellow, buttercup-like flowers that are approximately 1 inch in diameter. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and are followed by seed pods that resemble small peapods.
Care Guide
Caltha Natans is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to ensure that your plant thrives:- Water: This plant requires a consistent supply of water. Make sure that the water level in your pond or water garden is always high enough to cover the leaves.- Fertilization: Caltha Natans does not require fertilization. However, if you choose to fertilize, use a slow-release fertilizer specifically designed for aquatic plants.- Soil: This plant does not require soil as it obtains its nutrients from the water. However, you can plant it in aquatic planting baskets filled with aquatic soil or gravel to help anchor it in place.- Sunlight: Caltha Natans prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure that it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Caltha Natans is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal infections if it is grown in stagnant water. To prevent fungal infections, ensure that the water in your pond or water garden is constantly moving.
Habitat
Caltha Natans is native to North America and can be found growing in marshes, ponds, and slow-moving streams. It prefers shallow water and is often found growing along the edges of bodies of water.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Caltha Natans be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Caltha Natans can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its growth and is filled with aquatic soil or gravel.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Caltha Natans?
A: Caltha Natans does not require frequent fertilization. If you choose to fertilize, use a slow-release fertilizer specifically designed for aquatic plants and apply it once a year in the spring.
Q: Can Caltha Natans be grown in saltwater?
A: No, Caltha Natans cannot be grown in saltwater. It requires fresh water to survive.
Q: Can Caltha Natans be grown in full shade?
A: While Caltha Natans can tolerate partial shade, it prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure that it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Related Plants
– Caltha Palustris (Marsh Marigold)- Nymphaea Odorata (Fragrant Water Lily)- Iris Pseudacorus (Yellow Flag)- Typha Latifolia (Broadleaf Cattail)
References
– “Caltha Natans.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a319.- “Caltha Natans.” Aquascape, 25 Feb. 2021, www.aquascapeinc.com/aquatic-plants/caltha-natans.- “Caltha Natans.” Aquatic Plant Central, www.aquaticplantcentral.com/forumapc/plantfinder/details.php?id=151.
