Family: Asteraceae
Common Name: Pot Marigold

Named for calendula's habit of flowering throughout the year in its native habitat in the Mediterranean, only one of the 20 known species is widely grown, although hybridization has produced many stunning colours and types. Easily grown, they are perfect edging and border plants and provide good cut flowers.

Species

C. officinalis, pot marigold, is a hardy annual flowering in spring and summer and growing to 60 cm (24 in). Its many-petalled, daisy-like flowers, to 10 cm (4 in) across, come in cream through to apricot and orange. The soft, hairy foliage is pale green. This plant has a long history of usage as a medicinal, cosmetic and culinary herb. There are many cultivars available in shades of orange, yellow and cream. Good seed catalogues will list a large selection.

Cultivation

Calendulas will grow in full sun in any garden soil. They develop quickly, often flowering eight to ten weeks after sowing, although flowering generally takes longer in cool zones. Propagate from seed sown directly into the ground where plants are to flower. Sow in spring for summer flowers or in autumn for spring flowers.

Climate

Zone 6 and above.