MARSH MARIGOLD

also called cowslip (Caltha palustris) perennial herbaceous plant of the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) native to wetlands in Europe and North America. It is grown in boggy wild gardens. The stem of a marsh marigold is hollow, and the leaves are kidney-shaped, heart-shaped, or round. The glossy flowers are 2.5 to 5 cm (1 to 2 inches) across and have pink, white, or yellow sepals. Petals are absent. The stems, leaves, and roots are sometimes cooked and eaten as a vegetable, although the fresh plant is poisonous. The cooked and pickled flower buds are a substitute for capers.