Calendula, Pot Marigold

Twenty Early Spring Wildflowers - Abe Edwards

Common Name:
Calendula, Pot Marigold
Botanical Name:
Calendula officinalis
Family:
Compositae family – Daisy
Sun:
Full sun
Soil:
Rich, well drained
Propagation:
Seed
Hardiness Zone:
USDA Zone 8 – 11
Plant Height: Twelve to thirty six inches
Flower Color: Various

Calendula is probably native to the Mediterranean region of Europe. The genus name, Calendula, is from the Latin word calendea, or first day of the month and refers to Calendula’s generous bloom time. The species name Officinalis means that the plant is considered an herb.

The seed may be direct sown in the spring, or sown in a hotbed, cold frame or greenhouse about four to six weeks before the frost free date. The seed will germinate in one to two weeks at 68 to 80 degrees. Calendula may also be direct seeded a week or so before the frost free date in your region.

Calendula is a perennial in regions with moderate winters, but here in Indiana it is an annual flower. Most of the cultivars have a slightly spicy fragrance. Calendula is an easy to grow flower which will thrive under a wide variety of conditions. Calendula also has some medicinal properties, some of which have been proven medically. Calendula is the host plant for numerous moth larvae species and should not be planted in vegetable gardens because the cabbage moth uses it as a nursery for its larvae.

Calendula is attractive to butterflies and will also provide excellent cut flowers.

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June 16, 2011 · Administrator · No Comments
Tags: Annual Flowers, Calendula · Posted in: Flower Gardening