Calendula officinalis
A cheery mix of orange, yellow and cream coloured calendula flowers. The hardy plants are 2 ft tall and low maintenance.
Calendula is an easy flower to grow from seed. The large seeds are easy to handle and quick to germinate.
A bit more:
Calendula has a long history of use as a traditional herb across many countries, mainly for its wound and skin healing abilities. Recent research published in the paper “An Updated Review on the Multifaceted Therapeutic Potential of Calendula officinalis” (2023), finds it is an herb with a high number of phytonutrients and phytochemicals, including (to name just a few):
- High levels of carotenoids. Carotenoids are known for their antioxidant activity (e.g. strong free radical scavenging capacity. Free radicals are things like viruses, chemicals, pollution – threats your body experiences each day – antioxidants help protect your cells.)
- Terpenoids, which are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.
- Flavonoids, specifically quercetin, also know for its antioxidant activity and other actions.
The same study found that calendula functions as an (to name a few; see image):
- Antimicrobial
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiseptic
- Antiviral
- Hepatoprotective
This is one of the most cherished flowers in our garden.
Calendula also easily self seeds, so you will likely have calendula come up year after year from your first planting.
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How to Plant: Sow seeds indoors or outdoors. If sowing indoors, sow seeds (1/4″ deep) about 4 weeks before the last frost (late April or early May). Keep soil moist until seedlings emerge. Place seedlings under lights/in a sunny spot. Transplant after the danger of frost has passed. If sowing outdoors, sow seeds 1/4″ deep in early spring to early summer.
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Location: Sun
Life cycle: Annual
Height: 2 feet
Container Friendly
Catalogue image from a 1932 Burpee’s Seed Catalogue
