Description

The pot marigold, also known as Calendula officinalis, is a flowering plant in the daisy family Asteraceae. Despite its common name, it is not related to the true marigolds in the Tagetes genus. Pot marigold is native to southern Europe and is widely cultivated and naturalized throughout temperate regions worldwide.

Pot marigolds are prized for their bright and cheerful flowers, which come in shades of yellow and orange. The flowers typically have multiple layers of petals and a central disc, giving them a distinctive and attractive appearance. They bloom profusely from spring to fall, adding vibrant color to gardens, containers, and borders.

In addition to their ornamental value, pot marigolds have a long history of medicinal and culinary use. The petals of the flowers are edible and can be used fresh or dried to add color and flavor to salads, soups, and other dishes. They are also commonly used to make herbal teas and infusions, which are believed to have various health benefits.

Pot marigold extracts are used in herbal medicine for their anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and skin-soothing properties. Calendula creams, ointments, and salves are popular remedies for treating minor skin irritations, wounds, and rashes.

Overall, pot marigolds are valued for their beauty, versatility, and practical uses, making them popular additions to gardens and herbal medicine cabinets alike. They are relatively easy to grow, requiring well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, and they attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden.