Calendula officinalis Pot marigold (Compositae)

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Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold
(1 Page of 5)

The Calendula officinalis plant species is found in S. Europe. A garden escape in Britain[17]. It is a member of the Compositae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Pot marigold.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Calendula officinalis
Common Name:  Pot marigold
Family:  Compositae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  0.6   Mature Width:  0.5

Habitat:  The original habitat is obscure but it is found as a garden escape on waste, cultivated and arable land and along roadsides[200].

Edible Uses: Leaves - raw[14, 21]. When eaten they first of all impart a viscid sweetness, followed by a strong penetrating taste of a saline nature[4]. They are very rich in vitamins and minerals and are similar to Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion) in nutritional value[179]. Fresh petals are chopped and added to salads[183]. The dried petals have a more concentrated flavour and are used as a seasoning in soups, cakes etc[183]. High in vitamins A and C[218]. An edible yellow dye is obtained from the petals[46]. A saffron substitute[21], it is used to colour and flavour rice, soups etc[2, 14, 27, 33]. It is also used as a hair rinse, adding golden tints to brown or auburn hair[201]. A tea is made from the petals and flowers, that made from the petals is less bitter[183]. There is no record of the seed being edible, but it contains up to 37% protein and 46% oil[218].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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