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white marsh marigold

Scientific Name: Caltha leptosepala ssp. leptosepala var. leptosepa

Family: Ranunculaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Caltha leptosepala

Caltha leptosepala is commonly known as White Marsh Marigold, Twinflowered Marsh Marigold, or Broadleaved Marsh Marigold.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant grows from stems that may be buried.

Considerations for Children

  • This plant grows from stems that may be buried.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercup family); formerly Helleboraceae (Hellebore).
  • Synonyms/Variations:
    • Caltha leptosepala ssp. leptosepala var. leptosepala
    • Caltha leptosepala var. biflora
    • Caltha biflora
    • Caltha palustris var. alba
    • Caltha leptosepala ssp. howellii

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to western North America, ranging from Alaska to New Mexico.
  • Typically found in wet mountain habitats in alpine and subalpine regions.
  • Common east of the Cascade Mountains in Oregon and Washington.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • A perennial plant, typically growing to around 1 foot in height.
  • The glossy, basal leaves are longer than they are broad, with wavy edges.
  • Leaves arise directly from the soil.
  • Showy white flowers appear in spring (April-May) with a potential second flush in late summer (August-October).
  • Height: 10-30 cm.

Ecological Role

  • One of the earliest harbingers of spring in the Rocky Mountain West.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Observed interacting with ladybugs (Hippodamia convergens).