White Marsh Marigold
Caltha leptosepala
Last reviewed: June 2026
White Marsh Marigold is listed as toxic to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) at a slight level by the USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab). This is a livestock indicator and is separate from pet toxicity.
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
4"–12" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 3 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
White marsh marigold is a low-growing alpine perennial that produces bright white, buttercup-like flowers in late spring and early summer. This moisture-loving plant naturally grows in mountain wetlands and requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions to thrive.
In an HOA neighborhood
White Marsh Marigold takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires boggy conditions unsuitable for typical landscaping
- Goes completely dormant leaving bare spots
- Dies back early in season creating gaps
Wildlife value
The flowers attract various pollinators including bees, flies, and beetles during its blooming period from May through July.
Common questions
- How much sun does White Marsh Marigold need?
- White Marsh Marigold grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does White Marsh Marigold bloom?
- White Marsh Marigold blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is White Marsh Marigold native?
- White Marsh Marigold (Caltha leptosepala) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 3 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is White Marsh Marigold toxic to livestock?
- White Marsh Marigold is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (slight severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.
- What pollinators does White Marsh Marigold attract?
- White Marsh Marigold draws bees, flies, and beetles.
- Is White Marsh Marigold HOA-friendly?
- White Marsh Marigold takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow White Marsh Marigold? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz