Picture of Marsh Marigolds

Marsh marigolds (Caltha palustris), also called cowslips, are common streamside and swamp plants. They perform best in full sun to partial shade and prefer a soil with a neutral pH. Marsh marigolds grow 1'-2' high and bear yellow blooms in (depending on your region) March-June. These potential water garden plants have shiny, succulent leaves. But don't let the beauty of those leaves fool you: marsh marigolds can cause skin irritation, and they should never be eaten raw (bring to a boil, throwing out the first couple of pots of water). Marsh marigolds are indigenous to 33 states in the eastern and midwestern U.S. and West Coast, including Alaska.