Caltha palustris

When the heart-shaped leaves of Caltha palustris emerge, we know that the joyful golden yellow flowers are not far behind. They grow along our stream bed in little clusters and bloom early with ornamental good cheer. There is a plethora of “common names” for this little plant: Marsh Marigold, Kingcup, Water Buttercup are all fairly understandable. But there are also some more unusual regional names such as Publican’s Cloak, Soldier’s Buttons, Drunkards, Crazy Beth (or Betsey), Brave Bassinets, and Water Dragon whose origins are a bit more obscure. Someday, when time allows, it would be fun to pursue the origins of these names, but alas, it is too late tonight.

Footnote: For some wild reading, here’s a list of names given to this flower that just boggles the mind: http://www.plantlives.com/docs/C/Caltha_palustris.pdf