Floating marsh marigold (Caltha natans)

Family: Ranunculaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Caltha natans is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. 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. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Root - cooked. A survival food, used when all else fails. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Flower buds - cooked. Added to stews etc or pickled as capers. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. — A survival food, used when all else fails.; Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.; Flower buds - cooked.; Added to stews etc or pickled as capers.

Habitat & North American Range

Floating or on moist mud, ponds, lakes, slow-moving rivers and streams at elevations of 25 - 1500 metres. Wet meadows, marshes and in water in China. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)