Pot marigold
Also known as
Common marigold, English marigold, Garden marigold, Scotch marigold
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Calendula officinalis, commonly known as pot marigold, is a cool-season herbaceous annual in the Asteraceae. Native to the Mediterranean, it forms bushy clumps 30–60 cm tall with softly hairy, aromatic foliage and branched stems. Daisy-like flower heads, 5–7 cm across, range from single to fully double forms in shades of butter yellow to deep orange, often with a contrasting darker disc. It blooms most freely in mild weather, flowering from spring through early summer and again in autumn where summers are hot; in cool or coastal climates it may continue until hard frost. The edible petals lend a saffron-like color to foods and have a long history in herbal and skincare uses for their soothing, anti-inflammatory properties. Calendula attracts pollinators and beneficial insects, self-seeds modestly without becoming invasive, and thrives in lean, well-drained soils. Tolerant of light frost and generally pest-resistant, it is an easy, rewarding choice for borders, cottage gardens, vegetable beds, and containers.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Pot marigold
Water
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Outdoors, water deeply when the top 2–3 cm (about 1 inch) is dry; sandy soils may need more frequent irrigation. Containers dry faster—water when the top 2–5 cm are dry and ensure free drainage. Water in the morning at the soil line to keep foliage dry and limit mildew. Mulch lightly to conserve moisture and moderate temperature, but avoid piling mulch against stems.
Light
Provide full sun to light partial shade. In cool or maritime climates, 6–8+ hours of direct sun maximizes bloom and compact growth. Where summers are hot, give morning sun with dappled or bright shade after midday to prolong flowering and reduce stress. Indoors or under cover, place in the brightest window (south or west) or supply 12–16 hours of quality grow-lighting, rotating pots for even growth.
Nutrients
Calendula is a light feeder; excess nitrogen encourages foliage at the expense of blooms. Mix in modest compost at planting and side-dress midseason if growth slows. For containers, apply a balanced, dilute liquid feed (about 5-5-5 or similar) at half strength every 2–4 weeks while flowering. Avoid heavy, high-salt fertilizers, especially in heat. Always water before and after feeding to protect roots, and prioritize soil fertility over frequent fertilization.
Temperature
Calendula thrives in cool conditions, ideally 10–21°C (50–70°F). It tolerates light frosts to about −3°C (27°F) and may overwinter in mild, frost-free climates. Persistent heat above 27–30°C (80–86°F) reduces flowering and can cause plants to stall. In hot regions, grow as a spring and fall annual, provide afternoon shade, and increase watering. Protect from hard freezes with row cover, and avoid heat-reflective sites that exacerbate summer stress.
