Pot marigold - Calendula officinalis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Pot marigold

Also known as: Marigold, English Marigold, Hen-and-chickens, Ruddles

The pot marigold is a herbaceous perennial plant often recognized by its thick, orange-yellow blooms with numerous petals. Flowers of the pot marigold have a long history of table use. They are often served in salads or as a decoration. The flowers can also be made into a similarly-colored dye for foods, textiles, or cosmetic products.

Scientific classification

Species

Pot marigold (Calendula officinalis)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall, Early winter

Bloom Time

Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

20 cm to 80 cm

Plant Height

25 cm to 50 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

4 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Orange, Yellow, Gold, Red

Flower Color

Green, Orange

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of Pot marigold

Distribution of Pot marigold

Distribution Map

Pot marigold is native to Spain, where it can be found growing wild in wastelands and disturbed areas; it has been cultivated for so long that its original habitat is uncertain. This popular garden ornamental is now an introduced species in most temperate regions of the world.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Garden, waste, cultivated and arable land, roadsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Pot marigold (Calendula officinalis) is a time-honored garden favorite that brings bright colors with abundant flowers over a very long blooming period. It has many garden uses, adding vivacity to beds, borders, rock gardens, and ground cover. It adds charm to vegetable gardens, cottage gardens, and herb gardens. Pot marigold is also a good choice for containers and grows well with salad vegetables such as tomatoes, peas, and carrots.

Symbolism

Joy, remembrance, endurance, healing

Interesting Facts

According to legend, pot marigold was the flower that informed Virgin Mary of her pregnancy, so people born with this kind of flower blessing have maternal love and are full of all-embracing tenderness.

Name Story

Pot marigold: The common name of pot marigold is derived from the combination of mary and gold because the gold flowers that bloomed during the festivals of the Virgin Mary in Renaissance times were often used in cooking.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Pot marigold, including the following common varieties :

Pot marigold 'Fiesta Gitana Group'Pot marigold 'Fiesta Gitana'Pot marigold 'Snow Princess'

Quickly Identify Pot marigold

Daisy-like flowers, 3 inches (7.6 cm) wide, in yellows, oranges, reds, with darker centers.

Robust, slightly hairy green leaves, lance-shaped to oblong-obovate, up to 6 inches (15 cm) long.

Erect, sparsely branching stems up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall, slightly hairy and ribbed.

Fruits are dry, golden-brown achenes with a crescent shape, desiccated with a thorny exterior.

Aromatic leaves with fuzzy texture, prominent central vein, finely toothed or smooth edges.

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Care Guide for Pot marigold

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Pot marigold thrives in Mediterranean climates with weekly watering aligned to local rainfall. It is moderately drought tolerant, preferring well-drained soil and consistent moisture without waterlogging. Seasonal rain patterns greatly influence its growth, promoting lush flowering during the growing season.

Fertilize: Pot marigold benefits from high phosphorus fertilizers every 4-6 weeks to enhance growth and blooms. Use quarter-strength to prevent over-fertilization, especially during winter rest. Always water after fertilization, and safety is key—gloves are recommended for all gardeners.

Pruning: Pot marigold features vibrant, daisy-like flowers with medicinal uses. Prune in early to late spring for bushier growth and extended blooming. Remove damaged stems and deadhead spent flowers to encourage vigor and prevent legginess. Regular maintenance supports overall plant health and flowering.

Propagation: Propagation of pot marigold is easy, involving direct sowing in Spring. Signs of success include emerging seedlings and healthy growth. For optimal results, maintain consistently moist soil.

Repotting: Pot marigold requires excellent drainage in pots to thrive, preventing waterlogging and promoting healthy growth.

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Images of Pot marigold

Distribution of Pot marigold

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Pot marigold

Care Guide for Pot marigold

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Common Pests & Diseases