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Description
Calendula Officinalis, also known as pot marigold, is an annual or biennial flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to southern Europe but can now be found all over the world. Calendula Officinalis is widely grown for its bright yellow or orange flowers that bloom from early summer until frost.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Calendula |
Appearance
Calendula Officinalis can grow up to 60cm tall and 30cm wide. Its leaves are green and hairy, and its flowers can be up to 7cm in diameter. The flowers have a distinct aroma and are typically bright yellow or orange, although some cultivars may have pink or white flowers.
Care Guide
To care for Calendula Officinalis, follow these guidelines:
Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during dry spells.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Calendula Officinalis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Calendula Officinalis can grow in hardiness zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calendula Officinalis is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can still be affected by some common problems, such as:
Aphids: These pests can damage the plant by sucking the sap from its leaves and flowers.
Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves and flowers of the plant.
Habitat
Calendula Officinalis is a versatile plant that can grow in a variety of habitats, including gardens, meadows, and fields. This plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Calendula Officinalis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Calendula Officinalis can be grown indoors in a sunny window or under grow lights.
Q: What is the best time to plant Calendula Officinalis?
A: The best time to plant Calendula Officinalis is in the spring after the last frost.
Q: How often should I deadhead Calendula Officinalis?
A: Deadhead Calendula Officinalis regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season.
Q: Is Calendula Officinalis edible?
A: Yes, Calendula Officinalis is edible and is often used as a garnish or in salads.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Calendula Officinalis:
- Chrysanthemum
- Echinacea
- Marigold
- Black-eyed Susan
- Coreopsis
References
- “Calendula Officinalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282919.
- “Calendula Officinalis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/16652/i-calendula-officinalis-i/details.
- “Calendula Officinalis: Pot Marigold.” University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://wimastergardener.org/article/calendula-officinalis-pot-marigold/.
