Caltha natans
Family: Ranunculaceae
What it is like
A herb. It keeps growing from year to year. It grows 30 cm tall. It is usually floating or under water.
There are about 10 Caltha species. They grow in temperate bogs.
Where it is found
It is a cold temperate plant. It floats on mud and in ponds. It occurs between 25-1,500 m above sea level. It is best in wet soil. It suits hardiness zone 2.
Countries/locations it is found in
Alaska, Canada, China, Korea, Mongolia, North America, Siberia, USA
How it is used for food
Caution: It contains a poison that is destroyed on cooking. The flower buds are eaten cooked. They are added to stews and also used in pickles. The roots are boiled and eaten.
The root is a famine food.
Edible parts
Flowers, leaves, root, caution