Calendula officinalis 

'Pot Marigold'

[Ex. Gouves, Crete, Greece]

Asteraceae: a fast growing annual or biennial to 50cm. Found as a garden escape on waste, cultivated and arable land and along roadsides. The vivid orange daisy-like flowers, borne in long succession. Blooming from June – November. The leaves are simple, and aromatic. Native to Southern Europe.

USES:

Pot marigold florets are edible. They are often used to add colour to salads or added to dishes as a garnish and in lieu of saffron. The leaves are edible but are often not palatable. They have a history of use as a potherb and in salads.

Flowers were used in ancient Greek, Roman, Middle Eastern, and Indian cultures as a medicinal herb as well as a dye for fabrics, foods, and cosmetics.  Many of these uses persist today. They are also used to make oil that protects the skin.

Marigold leaves can also be made into a poultice that helps scratches and shallow cuts to heal faster, they also when made into a poultice can help prevent infection.

GROWING INFORMATION:

Sow seeds in situ from spring to early summer and again in September. The seed germinates best in darkness and usually within 1 - 2 weeks at 21°C. The plant often self-sows freely. An easily grown plant, it succeeds in any well-drained soil in full sun.

HARVESTED: 

 

APPROX. 45 SEEDS