Calendula is an annual or short-lived herbaceous perennial growing from 1 to 3 feet tall. Calendula makes flowers of orange or yellow, with single rows of petals or “doubles”—they glow like the sun. Calendula is a cultigen, meaning that the plant we currently use is the product of ages of human selection (mainly occurring in southern Europe) from the wild Mediterranean ancestor (wild calendula = Calendula arvensis). The plant is a prolific self-seeder. The part used is the whole flower, either fresh or dried.
This plant is attractive to bees, butterflies and/or birds.
Growing Conditions for Calendula
- Calendula is easily grown from seed and may be sown directly in the garden from early spring on into summer, with plenty of time left to get a good harvest of flowers.
- Tolerant of poor soils, calendula will grow in partial shade or full sun.
- The plant requires regular watering.
- Sometimes known as “pot marigold,” calendula is easily grown in pots on the doorstep or in window boxes.
- Ideal for children, the seeds are large and easily handled.
- Sow about ¼ inch deep and pat down the row.
- Keep weeded and thin to 6 inches to 1 foot apart.
- The first flowers are produced only 40 to 50 days after seed germination.
- Harvest is best done in the late morning, after the dew dries. As soon as the flowers come into their prime, pick them off.
- After the first harvest, pick again in a few days, when the newly developing flowers reach maturity.
Uses of Calendula
- The flower heads and dried florets of Calendula were typically used in medicine.
- Other uses include coloring dye and food flavoring.
- It was first used in Culpepper to relieve headaches, toothaches, swelling and for heart strengthening.
- The plant has also been used for aromatherapy, to treat eczema, scars, dry skin and other skin irritants.
- Other than medical use, the plant can also be used in culinary recipes.
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