Calendula, Alpha

With their upright - mounding tendency, Calendula is often referred to as 'Pot Marigold' - indeed they are as easy to grow as marigolds, however, Calendula sports large 2 1/2 in. blooms. This mix contains an appealing range of bloom sizes and orange colors. Flowers and leaves give a fresh, clean scent and are used as an antiseptic, food coloring and mild spice.

While Calendula does have edible flowers, they can be bitter; it is grown more for its beauty and medicinal value, as it has a high resin content. Blossoms are rich in carotenoid for use as dye. For example, the petals make a nourishing cream for the skin, used as an aid in treating acne and cold sores. An infusion is good for digestion and is said to relieve colitis and symptoms of menopause, and a tea made from steeping the petals can be used as a rinse to lighten and brighten hair.

Calendula makes an attractive cut flower and can be grown in the vegetable garden to help with insect control.

Indoors - start seed 4-6 weeks before last frost date in plug trays or small containers. Transplant after all danger of frost has past, spacing plants 6"-12" apart. 

Outdoors - direct sow seed after last frost date. Days to germination: 7-12 days. Thin plants to 6"-12" apart. Calendulas require little care. Pinch out spent flowers to encourage more blooms. They will re-seed but are not invasive. 55-60 days to harvest.

Height 12 Inches

USDA Hardiness Zone Annual

Characteristics & Attributes for Calendula officinalis