Calendula has many uses, long history
By MARILYN McKINLEY
Mahoning Co. master gardener volunteer
Looking for an old-fashioned flower to add to your annual cutting or herb garden?
How about calendula, also referred to “pot marigold?”
This is an attractive plant (herb), with bright orange, daisy-like flowers; has many uses (flowers, leaves, even roots); needs minimal maintenance; and has a long history.
Calendula was named by ancient Romans. It was noted that it was seen blooming on the first day of every month (calends).
It was a symbol of joy and happiness in their gardens because it provided a continuous supply of flowers and tender leaves.
Calendula has been used for centuries for cooking and for medicine.
Romans and Greeks used calendula in many rituals and ceremonies, sometimes wearing garlands or crowns made from the flowers.
Also called “Mary’s Gold,” it was used in early Catholic events.
The flower is sacred in India, used to decorate statues of Hindu deities.
Aztecs and Mayans also used the flowers in ceremonies.
Calendula flowers are still used on the Day of the Dead in Mexico and Central America.
Calendula flowers were used in German soups and stews. It’s still used to color butter and cheese.
The flowers are traditional ingredients in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. The flower adds a spicy taste, a little like saffron flavor.
Calendula tea is said to provide health benefits.
The flowers have been used as a dye for a variety of yellow and brown colors.
During the Civil War and World War I, the flowers were applied to wounds and cuts to prevent infection and speed healing.
It continues to be used today in alternative medicines for various afflictions.
Calendula is easy to grow from seed and is known as a reseeding annual.
Colors vary from pale to vibrant yellow and orange. There is a variety that has a pinkish hue, with tinges of brown on the edges.
It will tolerate almost any soil that is fairly well drained.
Calendula prefers cooler temperatures.
Flowers last longer in filtered or even lightly shaded areas. However, I have some in full sun and it continues to do very well, reseeding year after year.
It grows up to 15 inches tall and 4 inches wide.
Deadheading promotes more flowers.
Calendula makes an attractive border or edge plant.
It blooms from late spring, well into fall. If it is very warm, flowering may decrease, but will continue when temps cool.
One problem: watch for aphids.Always check before bringing cuttings into the house.
I find that having beneficial insects in my garden greatly decreases the aphid issue. If you do spot aphids, a quick shower to the underside of the leaves usually does the trick.
To read more about this awesome plant, visit go.osu.edu/calendula.