Field Marigold
Calendula arvensisfam. Asteraceae
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Pl. 6797 — Calendula arvensis
Calendula arvensisCalendula arvensisCalendula arvensisCalendula arvensisCalendula arvensisCalendula arvensisCalendula arvensisCalendula arvensisCalendula arvensisCalendula arvensisCalendula arvensisCalendula arvensisCalendula arvensisCalendula arvensis
IOverview
Overview
Field Marigold (Calendula arvensis) is an annual forb or herb known for its adaptability and widespread distribution across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Native to regions like Afghanistan, Albania, and Algeria, it has since naturalized in many other areas including parts of the Mediterranean, Middle East, and even some European countries such as Belgium and Austria. This plant is valued both for culinary and medicinal purposes; its edible parts include flowers, leaves, and shoots. Field Marigold thrives in moist to light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH between 7.5 and 8, making it versatile in garden settings. One distinctive feature is its light requirement, needing only a moderate amount of sunlight to flourish.
Quick answers
What is Field Marigold?
Field Marigold (Calendula arvensis) is an annual forb or herb known for its adaptability and widespread distribution across Europe, Asia, and North Africa.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Skin Soothe
skintincture
Traditional use for soothing skin irritations.
Gentle Digest
digestiontea
Traditional blend for digestive comfort.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Field Marigold thrives in light to moderate sunlight and prefers well-draining soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It requires moist conditions but can tolerate a pH range of 7.5–8. This annual plant is hardy in temperate regions with zones 5-9. For propagation, sow seeds directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Harvest edible parts such as flowers, leaves, and shoots for culinary use.
Light
7/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
Soil pH
7.5–8
Seasonal calendar
Northern hemisphere · UTC month is September
winterspringsummerautumnwinter
BloomJFMAMJJASOND
For first-time growers
How to grow Field Marigold for the first time
8steps
Start with Field Marigold to add a low-maintenance, colorful touch to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a small trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, or start seeds indoors about 4 weeks before planting out.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with full sun. Ensure soil is well-draining, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, about 6 inches apart. Transplant seedlings when they have two sets of true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any yellowing leaves and deadhead regularly to promote bushy growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, neglecting to deadhead.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesShoots
Edible uses: The field marigold's flowers and leaves are edible. They can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. The shoots can also be consumed fresh or dried for later use. SKIP
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe14 regions
native (14)AlbaniaAustriaBelgiumBulgariaCyprusFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryItalyPortugalSpainUkraineUnited Kingdom
Asia4 regions
native (4)AfghanistanIranIraqKuwait
Africa4 regions
native (4)AlgeriaCabo VerdeChadEgypt
Broader regions
native:Baltic States, East Aegean Is., Gulf States, Kriti, Czechoslovakia, Lebanon-Syria
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Asteraceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Asteraceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 6797a124-1ed3-4fe4-a2ab-10870e9a471f
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