Scientific Name
Calendula officinalis L.
Common Name(s)
Marigold, Common Marigold, Pot Marigold, Garden Marigold, English Marigold, Scottish Marigold, Ruddles
Synonym(s)
Calendula aurantiaca, Calendula eriocarpa, Calendula hydruntina, Calendula officinalis var. officinalis, Caltha officinalis
Scientific Classification
Family: Asteraceae
Subfamily: Asteroideae
Tribe: Calenduleae
Genus: Calendula
Flower
Color: Orange or yellow
Bloom Time: June to November
Description
Calendula officinalis is a short-lived aromatic herbaceous perennial with bright green leaves about 4 inches (10 cm) long. It grows up to 30 in (76 cm) tall. The upper leaves are lance-shaped with pointed tips, and the lower ones are oval with rounded tips.
The flowers are up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter and are held on thick, sturdy stems. The inflorescences are orange or yellow, comprising a thick capitulum or flowerhead up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter, surrounded by two rows of hairy bracts. The wild plant has a single ring of ray florets surrounding the central disc florets. The flowers usually appear from June to November but may appear all year long where conditions are suitable.
How to Grow and Care
The Calendula flower or flowering herb is an annual which will readily reseed. Too much care can result in the stunted or slow growth of the plants. Poor to average, well-draining soil and only occasional watering after plants are established is the secret to growing prolific Calendula plants.
Like most herbs, Calendulas are adaptable and do not require a lot of maintenance. Roots will often adapt to the space provided. The amazing Pot Marigold can be grown in containers or beds in full sun to shade conditions. As the Calendulas prefer cool temperatures, flowers last longer in filtered sun or shady areas.
If deadheaded regularly, this plant can bloom from spring through fall and beyond. In warmer areas, the Calendula may take a break from blooming during summer heat and then put on a show as temperatures fall in autumn. Regular pinching keeps the 1- to 3-foot (30 to 90 cm) plant bushy and prevents tall, spindly stalks.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Calendula.
Origin
Calendula officinalis is probably native to southern Europe.
Links
- Back to genus Calendula
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
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