SafePlants

Calendula officinalis: Pot Marigold

Calendula officinalis, commonly known as pot marigold, is a popular and versatile plant with a rich history. Other common names include ruddles, common marigold, garden marigold, English marigold, and Scottish marigold. This hardy annual is favored for its bright, daisy-like flowers and ease of cultivation.

Considerations for Pets

• Calendula officinalis has petals that are edible and are used to add color to salads and rice.
• The plant has been commonly grown in gardens and used medicinally for centuries.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Calendula officinalis
• Common Names: Pot marigold, ruddles, common marigold, garden marigold, English marigold, Scottish marigold, Scotch Marigold, Mary bud, Mary gold, gold bloom, Garden marigold, holigold, golds, ruddes, Mary Gowles, Oculus Christi, Poet's marigold, Marybud, Mercadela, Oqhuwan.
• Family: Asteraceae (also referred to as Compositae or Daisy Family), subfamily Asteroideae.
• Synonyms: Caltha officinalis.

Distribution and Habitat

• Calendula officinalis is native to southern and central Europe.
• It is well-adapted to the temperate zones of Europe and is considered a reliable cool-season annual.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Pot marigold is a hardy annual or biennial that typically reaches a height of 50-70cm at maturity.
• It features branching stems and blooms most of the summer. However, it is intolerant of intense heat and may die out during periods of hot, humid weather.
• The flowers are daisy-like, single or double, and usually come in shades of yellow, buff, and orange, with cultivars offering a variety of colors, including reds. Some varieties, like 'Princess Orange Black' and 'Fiesta Gitana', showcase unique color combinations, such as dark centers or double blooms.
• Low-growing varieties such as 'Fiesta Gitana' reach approximately 40 cm, making them suitable for containers.

Ecological Role

• The open, single flowers of Calendula officinalis are attractive to butterflies, bees and other insects.

Traditional and Modern Uses

• Calendula officinalis has a long history of medicinal use.
• The petals are edible and can be sprinkled on salads or used as a garnish, adding a peppery taste.
• The flower petals can also be used to add color to rice and other dishes, serving as a substitute for saffron.

Quirky Facts

• The common name "Marigold" is thought to refer to golden blooms worn by the Virgin Mary, but the name is applied to flowers from several different plant genera.
• The name Calendula officinalis comes from the Latin word "Kalendae," which was the first day of the month in the Roman calendar.