Calendula
(also referred to as...)
Garden Marigold, Marigold, Marygold, Pot Marigold
Latin Name: Calendula officinalis
Family: Compositae
Description
Calendula can be found in flower at the beginning of most months of the year. It is for this reason that its name originates from the Latin word kalendae, meaning "first day of the month" in the Roman calendar. Marigold refers to its links with the Virgin Mary.
In Assyrian tablets, pre 600 BCE, gods and goddesses of India were crowned with wreaths of marigolds. It was also used as a medicinal herb and as a colourant for fabrics, foods, and cosmetics. Calendula has long been used by Native Americans. The common name marigold is used for various species, notably for targets species, which have very different properties.
Calendula is native to southern Europe and has long been used by Native Americans. This annual is now widely cultivated and prefers well drained to poor soil in full sun. Calendula will die out in hot summers. Remove dead flower heads to prolong flowering and prevent excessive self-seeding. Caterpillars, powdery mildew, or rust may attack foliage. It is thought that calendula improves the condition of plants planted near by.
Flowers are cut in dry conditions and petals are used fresh or dried. The petals can be either separated or left as the whole flower head. Cut and prepare as quickly as possible in a shaded location to avoid discolouration.
