The herbaceous marigold (Calendula officinalis) belongs to the daisy family (Asteraceae family) and forms characteristic sickle-shaped seeds on the faded flower heads. The plant is an annual, but extremely grateful and versatile flower.
Marigolds bloom from early summer
Summery splashes of color with staying power
Depending on the weather and location, the marigold blooms from around June to October. Although the individual flower heads wither after only about four to five days, the plants quickly form new flower buds. A special feature of this plant is its sensitivity to weather: If the flowers are still closed at 7 a.m. in the morning, according to an old farmer's rule, there should still be rain on the same day.
Use the flowers of the marigold
It does not harm the marigold if you regularly cut off individual flowers as cut flowers. On the contrary, this can even stimulate the calendula to produce new flowers. You can also use the yellow or orange petals for the following purposes:
- as a medicinal plant
- as a decorative part of summer salads
- to drive away snails and threadworms
- for marigold tea
tips
Cut off the blossoms of the marigold before they are fully open, so that they stay in the vase for a particularly long time.