Calendula, commonly known as the marigold or pot marigold, is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the Asteraceae family. Renowned for its bright and sunny blooms, Calendula officinalis is the most well-known species, native to southern Europe. The plant’s distinctive orange and yellow flowers, resembling daisies, have contributed to its popularity in gardens and herbal medicine for centuries. Beyond its ornamental value, Calendula holds a place in traditional medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. The petals are often used in herbal infusions, salves, and creams, making Calendula a versatile herb with both cosmetic and medicinal applications.
Calendula is celebrated for its easy cultivation, thriving in a variety of soils and climates. It is a hardy annual or short-lived perennial that self-seeds readily, creating a continuous display of cheerful blossoms. As a companion plant, Calendula is known to attract beneficial insects, such as bees and ladybugs, while repelling certain garden pests. Whether gracing garden beds, borders, or containers, Calendula’s radiant blooms and potential healing properties continue to make it a valued and multifaceted member of the plant kingdom, appreciated by gardeners and herbalists alike.