Western Marsh Marigold (Caltha leptosepala)

Family: Ranunculaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Caltha leptosepala is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, beetles, flies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Root - it must be well cooked. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Flower buds - raw, cooked or pickled and used as a caper substitute. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. — Root - it must be well cooked.; Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.; Flower buds - raw, cooked or pickled and used as a caper substitute.; Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Habitat & North American Range

Open, wet, subalpine and alpine marshes, wet seepages and marshy meadows at elevations of 750 - 3900 metres. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)