Family: Ranunculaceae Genus: Caltha  

Species: Caltha palustris L.
Common Name(s): cowslip, marsh marigold, cowflock, meadow-bright, kingcup; (Spanish) calta, cala de agua

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Caltha palustris, commonly known as cowslip, is a small to medium size perennial herbaceous plant of the buttercup family, native to marshes, fens, ditches and wet woodland in temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. It typically flowers between April and August, depending on altitude and latitude, but can flower at other times.

Etymology

The genus name Caltha is derived from the ancient Greek word “kálathos,” meaning goblet, and is said to refer to the shape of the flower. The species epithet palustris is Latin for “of the marsh” and indicates its common habitat.20

The common name “cowslip” has an Anglo-Saxon origin. The Anglo-Saxon word “cuslyppe” is composed of cu for “cow” and slyppe for “slop.” So cowslip means cow slop or cow dong, presumably because cowslip flourishes in pastures.21

In Latvia, cowslip is called “gundega,” a name often given to girls and symbolizing fire. The word “gundega” is made from two words – uguns (“fire”) and dega (“burned”). This refers to the burning reaction that some people experience from contact with cowslip sap.

Traditional Medicine

Despite its toxicity, which necessitates caution, cowslip has been employed in traditional medicine as an antispasmodic to ease muscle spasms, a diuretic to increase urine production, an emetic to induce vomiting, and a vulnerary to aid wound healing.

Gastronomy

Early spring greens and buds of cowslip are edible when cooked, but are poisonous when raw. Very young flower buds can be prepared like capers and used as a spice. In addition, a fine wine can be made from the glossy yellow blossoms.22