Calendula officinalis Compositae

Marigold

Appears in
Complete Book of Herbs

By Geraldene Holt

Published 1991

  • About

CULTIVATION This hardy annual has hairy, mid-green, tongue-shaped leaves and yellow, cream or orange, daisy-like flowers from late spring. Reaching a height of 30-50cm (12-20in), it prefers moist, medium-rich soil and full sun. Propagate it by sowing seeds in spring or autumn, thinning to 15 cm (6in) apart. Harvest the leaves and flowers at any time, but pick flowers you want to dry from midsummer. A garden, border, container or conservatory herb.