CALENDULA

Calendula officinalis

These bright yellow and orange flowers are commonly called Marigold. They bloom almost all year round and will readily reseed. Calendulas are undemanding plants that are easily grown in reasonably fertile well-drained pots or garden beds. They tolerate full sun to shade conditions, but as they prefer cool temperatures, flowers last longer in filtered light or shady areas. Calendulas are used for both culinary and medicinal purposes.

PLANT

Early spring.

HARVEST

All year round. The plant is small bushy. Their ease of establishment on almost any soil type can see them become slightly invasive.

EAt

When used in stews, broths and salads, these edible flowers add a spicy taste similar to saffron to many dishes. Do not consume the leaves of the calendula plant as they are poisonous.

PRESERVE

They can also be dried and stored for later use.

RECIPES

Try this grapefruit and calendula warming cider.