La Calendula officinalis, commonly known as calendula, buttercup, marigold, or marigold, is one of the most valued plants in gardening, natural medicine, and cosmetics. Originally from Egypt and widely distributed throughout the world, today it is common to find marigolds in gardens, balconies, orchards, and even indoors. resistance and adaptability, its beautiful flowering and its unparalleled range of properties make it one of the most valued species among ornamental and medicinal plants.
Botanical characteristics of calendula
Calendula is a annual herbaceous plant or biennial belonging to the family AsteraceaeIt stands out for its upright bearing - although it can grow slightly prostrate - and for its robust stems, between 20 and 70 cm tall depending on the variety and growing conditions. It has alternate leaves, with a soft texture, oblong-lanceolate or obovate appearance, measuring between 7 and 14 cm long and 1 to 4 cm wide, and often have a light hair on their surface.
The inflorescence of the calendula forms striking floral chapters 3 to 5 cm in diameter, with ligulate flowers—the characteristic petal—in vibrant yellow or intense orange tones, depending on the variety. A curious thing is that its flowers close at dusk and they open with the first rays of the sun, which has generated numerous popular legends and names related to calendars in different cultures.
After flowering, the plant develops fruits called achenes, curved and provided with membranous wings or spines on their backs, alternating with other smaller cymbiform fruits, resembling tiny ships. These fruits contain the seeds with which the species multiplies. The aroma of marigolds may be unpleasant for some, and its flavor is marked by a distinct bitterness.
Calendula is a plant of prolonged floweringIn temperate climates, it can bloom almost all year round, especially between late winter and the first cold spells of autumn.
Main varieties and types of marigold
- African marigold: Recognized for its large, round, deep yellow or orange flowers, it is one of the most showy varieties.
- French marigold: It is distinguished by its double flowers, with tassel-shaped petals, and reaches heights of between 15 and 50 cm; it is ideal for planters and borders.
- Triploid marigold: A hybrid between the African and French varieties, it displays a diverse range of colors and shapes, combining hardiness and showiness.
- Mexican marigold: It stands out for its height (it can reach one meter) and the anise-like aroma in its petals; its flowers are smaller.
- Calypso Orange, Pacific Beauty, Bon Bon, Radio and Indian Prince: They are popular cultivars for their color nuances (oranges, yellows, reds) and double or semi-double forms, perfect for adding diversity to any garden.
Medicinal properties and uses of calendula
Calendula has been used since ancient times in folk medicine, standing out for its healing, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and soothing effectsThe most notable active ingredients are carotenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and tannins, which are responsible for its many applications:
- Skin regenerator: It stimulates collagen production, accelerates healing, and is very useful for burns, wounds, acne, eczema, chapped hands and feet, and mouth ulcers.
- Anti-inflammatory and soothing: Relieves itching and inflammation after insect bites or dermatitis.
- Antibacterial and fungicidal: Helps in the treatment of fungi, warts or skin infections.
- Menstrual cycle regulator: The flavonoids in calendula contribute to normalizing the cycle and relieving uterine discomfort (dysmenorrhea).
- Digestive: An infusion of its flowers can soothe gastritis, indigestion and mild vomiting.
- Culinary: The fresh petals are edible and can be used to garnish or flavor salads and dishes, or prepared as an infusion.
In cosmetics, calendula oils and creams are highly valued for their moisturizing and protective effects against dehydration and skin aging, and their contribution to sun protection against UV rays is even being researched.
How to make and apply homemade calendula oil
Homemade calendula oil is very popular and easy to prepare. The recommended steps for making it are:
- Put fresh or dried flowers of calendula in a sterilized jar and cover them completely with extra virgin olive oil (the ideal proportion is the same amount of flowers as oil).
- Let the mixture rest for 30 days in a warm place, allowing it to receive indirect sunlight for two to three hours daily.
- Shake the bottle gently every day.
- After a month, filter the oil through a fine cloth and store it in a dark glass container in the refrigerator. It's important to prepare small quantities to maximize the potency of the active ingredients.
This oil can dilute with other oils (almond, jojoba, grape) to enhance its topical use. It's always a good idea to test on your wrist to ensure there are no adverse reactions before applying it to larger areas.
Recommendations for growing and sowing marigolds
Calendula is a plant very rustic and easy to grow, ideal for both beginner and expert gardeners:
- Planting time: It can be sown directly into the ground in spring, or in a protected seedbed in late winter. It can also be sown in autumn in warm climates.
- Sowing by seeds: Place 2 or 3 seeds per seed tray at a maximum depth of 2-3 cm. For homemade seed trays, you can even use recycled containers (yogurt-type), making sure they have drainage holes.
- Transplant: When the plant is between 5 and 7 cm tall and has at least two true leaves, transplant it to its final location.
- Separation between plants: Leave 20 to 30 cm between plants so they can expand and bloom fully.
- Root: The taproot can reach about 30 cm deep, so it's a good idea to choose deep pots if you grow it indoors.
Soil and substrate requirements
The calendula is not very demanding, although it appreciates loose, light soils rich in organic matterThe optimal pH is between 6 and 7. For it to develop its full potential:
- Sewer system: Avoid waterlogging, but maintain a constant, slightly moist soil. If growing in a pot, add gravel or coarse sand to the bottom.
- Amendments: Add compost or worm castings before planting and during flowering, and fertilize every two weeks with flowering plant fertilizer.
Light and temperature conditions
Marigold prefers direct sunlight, receiving at least six hours of light per day for its best flowering. It's hardy and grows even in semi-shade, but it will flower less. Withstands low temperatures and light frosts, although it prefers warm and temperate environments to grow and produce more flowers.
Thanks to this hardiness, it can be grown both outdoors and in bright interiors. In climates with very cold winters, it is advisable to protect young plants from severe frost.
How to water and prune marigolds
irrigation should be regular and moderateThe key is:
- Constant watering during flowering: Keep the substrate moist but never waterlogged. Increase feeding frequency during the warmer months, and reduce feeding frequency during fall and winter.
- Effective drainage: It is better to water less than to overwater, since excess water causes root rot and fungi.
- Pruning: After flowering or when the plant shows wilted branches, trim these parts to encourage new growth. In pots, renew part of the substrate by adding organic matter after each growth cycle.
Maintenance and prevention of pests and diseases
Despite being resistant, marigold can be occasionally attacked by pests and diseases:
- Aphids, mealybugs, snails and slugs: Particularly attracted to its flowers and tender shoots, marigolds also repel nematodes and whiteflies, making them a very attractive companion crop in vegetable gardens.
- Fungi: Such as powdery mildew, rust, and botrytis, which appear if there is excessive watering or if the environment is very humid.
To avoid problems, monitor the plant regularly, manually remove minor pests, and apply organic insecticides or fungicides if necessary.
Associations and benefits of calendula in orchards and gardens
Calendula not only brings beauty with its intense flowers, but helps maintain biological balance In orchards and gardens. Grown alongside vegetables and other plants, it protects against pests such as nematodes and whiteflies thanks to the repellent substances it emits from its roots and leaves. It's common to plant rows of marigolds between tomato plants, carrots, or lettuce, using their flowers as a natural barrier.
In landscape design, marigolds can be planted in borders, colorful carpets, flowerbeds, and large containers, providing joy and brightness for months.
Decorative and culinary applications of calendula
In addition to its uses in medicine and cosmetics, calendula is increasingly being integrated into cooking and decoration:
- Comestible flowers: Its fresh petals decorate and add color to salads, soups, and rice dishes. They are also added to pasta dishes, cheeses, and baked goods for an original touch.
- Pot and garden cultivation: It is perfect for sunny balconies and terraces and combines perfectly with other flowering plants such as pansies, lavender, or summer bulbs.
- Decoration ideas: Create carpets of marigolds in large planters, line paths, or use wooden planters for a natural and cheerful effect.
Frequently asked questions about calendula
- Can I grow marigolds indoors? Yes, as long as it receives several hours of direct sunlight or strong artificial light. Dwarf varieties are ideal for pots and small spaces.
- What should I do if my marigold stops blooming? Make sure it gets enough sun, check the substrate (it may need fertilizer), and perform a clean pruning after flowering.
- Is it possible to consume calendula? Its flowers and petals are edible and can be used in infusions or to decorate dishes.
Calendula, with its variety diversity, ease of cultivation, and ornamental, medicinal, and culinary properties, is a must-have for both beginners and experienced gardeners. It not only brightens the environment with its intense colors and long-lasting blooms, but also provides tangible health and sustainability benefits for the garden or vegetable patch.
