Calendula officinalis aka Calendula
Taxonomy
Calendula officinalis, also known as the pot marigold, common marigold, ruddles, Mary's gold, or Scotch marigold, is a flowering plant in the daisy family Asteraceae. Its exact origin is uncertain, as it has a long history of cultivation and may have originated from southern Europe or be of garden origin. This hardy annual variety produces bi-colour blooms ranging from gold to pale orange, which contrast beautifully against its dark green foliage. While it is often grown as an annual flower, Calendula officinalis is a short-lived perennial in warmer climates. It is not to be confused with the common marigold (Tagetes spp.), but both belong to the Asteracea family and share a daisy-like appearance. The plant's Latin specific epithet, officinalis, refers to its medicinal and herbal uses. The name "pot marigold" originates from the gold flowers traditionally used in cooking during the festivals of the Virgin Mary, combining the names "Mary" and "gold" to form "marigold."
Common names
Calendula, Garden MarigoldHow to care for Calendula
Difficulty
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Calendula is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
Water
Calendula should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Calendula loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Calendula prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Calendula is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
Region of origin
Calendula’s native range is S. Europe. A garden escape in Britain[17].
More info:
Wikipedia
