Calendula officinalis is an annual or short-lived perennial herb belonging to the daisy family (Asteraceae). This plant originates from southern Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean region. It has been cultivated for a long time and is commonly found as a garden escapee in cool, temperate climates.
About Calendula
Calendula is mainly grown in flower gardens rather than being used as a culinary herb. It flourishes in borders, flower beds, cut flower gardens, and containers. These colorful blossoms create a stunning display, particularly when planted in clusters or within a cottage garden environment. Although it is believed that calendula can deter insects, thus making it a suggested companion plant for vegetable gardens, this assertion has not yet been proven by scientific research.
While this plant is relatively resistant to pests, it can sometimes face issues with aphids, powdery mildew, and occasionally cucumber mosaic virus. Be aware that plants might struggle during extended periods of hot summer weather but typically bounce back when cooler temperatures return.
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is generally cultivated as an annual plant, although it is actually a short-lived perennial. In warmer climates, specifically in USDA zones 9-11, it thrives well.
How to Cultivate Calendula
Calendula is a straightforward plant to grow in well-drained soil and full sunlight. You can sow seeds directly in the garden just before the last frost date, but for an earlier bloom, start seeds indoors approximately 6–8 weeks before the last frost. By making successive sowings, you can enjoy fresh, flowering plants throughout the season. Below you will find Tips for Growing Calendula:
- Use fresh seeds, as their viability decreases over time in storage.
- Sow seeds at a depth of ¼ to ½ inch; avoid exposing them to light, as it can hinder germination.
- Expect seeds to germinate within 5 to 15 days.
- Once the plants reach a few inches in height, pinch off the vegetative buds to encourage a bushier growth.
Calendula thrives best with moderate watering and minimal fertilization. Regularly deadhead the flowers to promote continuous blooming; if left untrimmed, the plants may self-sow.
How to Use Calendula
Calendula not only enhances the beauty of your garden but also offers numerous benefits:
- Natural Pest Control:
- When planted alongside vegetables such as tomatoes and beans, calendula attracts beneficial insects while deterring harmful pests.
- Edible and Delicious:
- Its petals provide a peppery flavor and a splash of color to salads and soups.
- Medicinal Properties:
- Harvest the flowers to dry for use in teas, soothing salves, or aromatic potpourri.
Easy To Grow Calendula Herb Plant Video
Below is a video I put together showing what the plants I grew look like in mid-June. There are many varieties of Calendula. The herb plant featured in my video is the ‘sun pacific’ variety. These are my personal tips on how I grew these from a package of seeds purchased locally.
Thanks for checking out my website and blog post about the Calendula I grew from seed this year.
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In conclusion I would like to note that Calendula thrives in cooler conditions, though its blooming may slow during the hot summer months. There’s no need to worry—it bounces back wonderfully, showcasing vibrant flowers as temperatures start to drop, bringing a burst of autumn color. Whether you want to attract pollinators or explore its edible and medicinal uses, calendula is a plant that provides a wealth of benefits. With its rich history, easy care needs, and versatility, it is an indispensable addition to any garden.
Happy Gardening,
