Pot Marigold, Common Marigold, Calendula
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiosperms, Class: Eudicots, Order: Asterales, Family: Asteraceae, Genus: Calendula, Species: C. officinalis · Asteraceae (Daisy or Sunflower family) · Simple; annual or short-lived perennial herb
Species
Calendula officinalis
Leaf Type
Simple; annual or short-lived perennial herb
Family
Asteraceae (Daisy or Sunflower family)
Shape
Oblanceolate to spatulate; often described as spoon-shaped
Size
Leaves are approximately 2-6 inches long (5-15 cm). The specimen appears within the typical mature size range.
Margin
Entire to slightly wavy (undulate), sometimes with very fine, widely spaced teeth
Arrangement
Alternate along the stem; lower leaves are more petiolate, upper leaves are often sessile or amplexicaul
Rarity
Very Common; widely cultivated as a garden ornamental and medicinal herb.
Color & Pattern
Medium to dark green; the dried specimen shows a characteristic dull olive-green. The flower is vibrant orange with a yellow-orange receptacle.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation with a prominent midvein; smaller lateral veins are often less distinct when dried
Texture & Surface
Pubescent (hairy) on both sides, giving it a slightly sticky or resinous feel when fresh. Surface is matte.
Description
An aromatic herbaceous plant reaching up to 31 inches tall. It produces bright orange or yellow daisy-like flower heads with ray and disc florets. The stems are angular and branched, covered in sticky glandular hairs.
Key Features
Spatulate leaves that clasp the stem; sticky, fragrant foliage; vibrant orange ray florets; unique curved and 'warty' achenes (seeds).
Habitat
Thrives in full sun and well-drained soils; commonly found in cottage gardens, meadows, and disturbed waste ground.
Geographic Range
Likely native to Southern Europe and the Mediterranean; now naturalized throughout temperate regions worldwide.
Condition Notes
The specimen is a pressed and dried cutting. The flower remains remarkably vibrant, while the leaves show typical desiccation and slight browning along the midrib. Overall health grade: Good (preserved).
Interesting Facts
The name 'Calendula' refers to the plant's tendency to bloom on the 'calends' (first days) of every month in mild climates. It was historically used as 'poor man's saffron' to color cheese and butter.
Medicinal & Uses
Widely used in topical ointments for skin healing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Petals are edible and used in salads or as a natural dye.
Ecological Role
Provides a long-season pollen and nectar source for bees, hoverflies, and butterflies. It is also an accidental 'trap crop' for aphids in gardens.
Similar Species
Tagetes species (French/African Marigolds) which have pinnately compound leaves; Calendula arvensis (Field Marigold) which has much smaller flower heads.
Foraging Tips
Look for orange/yellow daisy-like flowers with aromatic, sticky leaves. Best harvested in mid-morning after dew has dried but before the sun is too high.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic and generally recognized as safe (GRAS). However, individuals allergic to the Asteraceae family (like ragweed) should use caution as it may cause contact dermatitis.