Description

• Petite, ruffled, orange-salmon petals on short stems

• The medium-dark, green leaves are covered with fine hairs

• The compact size makes it perfect for containers and borders

Keeping it Going

• Do not over water (no water in saucers under pots); and ensure soil is well-draining

• dead head to promote more blooms

• Move containers to part shade during hot summers 

• Tolerates drought

• Tolerates frost

Won't Tolerate

• Excessive heat

• Excessively moist soil (causes root rot)

History

&

Points of Interest

• Origin is obscure, but possibly native to southern Europe

• Has been mentioned in many historical texts from Shakespeare's, A Winter's Tale," to "Macer's Herbal" (15th century).  

• The colonists used the petals to color butter and cheese.  They also added them to soups for flavor.

• Calendula has been called the "poor man's saffron" because it adds rich color and spice to many dishes (rice, salad, bread, etc.)

• Parts used:  Petals/ flowers (petals can be used fresh or dried)

• Uses:  Medicinal, culinary, cosmetic, and aromatic

• Attracts pollinators - butterflies love them!

• This low growing annual is perfect for containers, borders and cut flower gardens