Calendula, or pot marigold, is a popular short-lived perennial that is often grown as an herb, companion plant, and bedding plant. It has a long history of medicinal use. It is alternatively used for its edible flowers. The leaves and flowers can be used in tea, poultices, cosmetics, and salves.

The flower is also excellent for producing natural dye. The flowers can be used dried or fresh with or without and alum mordant. Colors will range from light yellow to orange to tan. 

Calendulas are a notoriously charming and easy plant to grow. They like consistently damp, rich soil and are best grown in a garden or container in full sun to prevent them from becoming leggy. They are said to repel garden pests and attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverflies. Calendulas are aphid magnets, though the plants do not seem to become sickly from them. They may deter aphids from other nearby plants.

Water Use: Medium

Light Requirement: Sun to part shade

Soil Moisture: Damp

Soil type: Rich humus, potting soil

Soil pH: 6-8

Drought Tolerance: Low

Short lived perennial, annual

Special attributes: Attracts beneficial insects, bee plant, deer resistant, good garden companion plant.