Caltha polypetala (Giant Marsh Marigold)

Resembling giant buttercups, Caltha polypetala (Giant Marsh Marigold) is a herbaceous perennial prized for its clusters of large, brilliant golden flowers, up to 2 in. (5 cm). They boast up to 40 showy stamens in their center. Blooming from early spring to summer, they are held well above the foliage of long-stalked, rounded green leaves which tend to get smaller as they progress up the stem. A harbinger of spring, Giant Marsh Marigold is one of the earliest to bloom, kicking off the growing season with colorful blooms.

• Grows up to 24 in. tall (60 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm)
• Thrives in full sun in deep, rich organic soil, at the water's edge, or in shallow water up to 6 in. (15cm) deep. Mulch annually to conserve moisture.
• Low maintenance, this perennial plant is generally pest free. Keep an eye out for powdery mildews and rust diseases. Deer resistant.
• No pruning is required, though the stems may be cut back after flowering
• Propagate by seed, sown fresh in late summer in a cold frame, making sure that the compost does not dry out, or by division in spring.
• Native of Northern Europe and the Pacific Northwest from Oregon, up the coast, and to Alaska.