Pot Marigold Calendula officinalis 'Indian Prince' (Prince Series)
ABOUT
Calendula officinalis 'Indian Prince', commonly known as pot marigold, is a striking plant prized for its beautiful and vibrant flowers. The blossoms of the 'Indian Prince' variety stand out with their deep orange petals that have a velvety texture. Each petal has a strikingly contrasting darker reddish-brown underside, which adds to the dramatic flair of the bloom. This two-toned effect gives depth and dimension to the flower heads, making them appear fiery and radiant. The center of the flowers is a dense cluster of dark brown to black disc florets that add to the ornamental value and attract pollinators. The foliage of pot marigold is equally lush, with bright green leaves that are lance-shaped and have a slightly hairy texture. The whole plant exudes a robust and hardy demeanour, contributing to its popularity in gardens and flower beds, where it provides a continuous display of richly colored flowers throughout its blooming season.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Pot Marigold, English Marigold, Garden Marigold, Gold Bloom, Ruddles, Scotch Marigold.
Common names
Calendula officinalis.
ToxicityTo humans
Calendula, commonly referred to as pot marigold, is generally considered safe for humans. There are no known toxic effects from ingesting Calendula officinalis. It has been used traditionally in herbal remedies, including teas and topical applications, without significant reports of toxicity. However, although uncommon, allergic reactions are possible, and consuming large amounts of calendula may lead to adverse effects such as nausea or dizziness. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming herbal products, especially if pregnant, nursing, or if you have any underlying health conditions.
To pets
Pot marigold is not considered toxic to pets. It is often regarded as safe when pets come into contact with it or even ingest small amounts. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion of large quantities could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If your pet has ingested a substantial amount of the plant and is showing signs of distress, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2-11
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts beneficial insects: Calendula officinalis 'Indian Prince' is known to attract beneficial insects like pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which are vital for the pollination of many other plants.
- Edible flowers: The petals of Calendula officinalis 'Indian Prince' are edible and can be used in salads, as garnishes, or to add color to various dishes.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its vibrant orange and red petals, the plant adds a pop of color to gardens, borders, and pots, enhancing the visual appeal of outdoor spaces.
- Easy to grow: Calendula is known for being low-maintenance and tolerant of poor soil conditions, making it an ideal plant for beginner gardeners.
- Companion planting: The plant is often used in vegetable gardens as a companion plant to deter certain pests and as an attractant for beneficial insects.
- Extended blooming: It has a long flowering period which can last from early spring to fall, providing a consistent display of color in the garden.
- Erosion control: Because Calendula officinalis 'Indian Prince' can quickly establish itself and spread, it can be used to stabilize soil and prevent erosion in certain settings.
- Culinary uses: Apart from the flowers being edible, the petals are used to impart a golden hue to foods and can substitute for saffron.
- Garden therapy: The process of tending to Calendula plants, as with other gardening activities, can be therapeutic and contribute to mental well-being.
- Wildlife friendly: This plant contributes to the overall ecosystem by providing nectar and pollen for various species, supporting biodiversity.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Calendula is commonly used to reduce inflammation in skin conditions.
- Wound healing: The plant is known for promoting the healing of cuts, wounds, and other skin injuries.
- Antimicrobial: It has natural antimicrobial properties that can help to prevent infection.
- Antiseptic: Calendula is used as an antiseptic to cleanse wounds and prevent bacterial growth.
- Antispasmodic: It may offer relief from muscle spasms or cramps.
- Astringent: The astringent properties of calendula can help in toning the skin and reducing bleeding in minor cuts.
- Antifungal: Calendula has been used to treat fungal skin infections.
- Menstrual cycle regulation: It's been traditionally used to help regulate menstrual cycles.
- Anti-cancer potential: Some studies suggest calendula may have properties that could help in hindering the growth of certain cancer cells, although more research is needed in this area.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Colorant in Fabric and Food: Calendula petals can be used as a natural dye, imparting a range of colors from yellow to orange on fabrics or in culinary recipes.
- Frost Indicator: Since Calendula is sensitive to frost, its blooming pattern can give gardeners an early indication of the onset of cold weather.
- Companion Planting: Calendula can be planted amongst vegetables to attract pollinators and beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, that prey on garden pests.
- Natural Pesticide: The plant contains substances that can repel certain unwanted insects, making it a useful addition to the organic garden.
- Edible Flower Garnish: Calendula petals are edible and can be sprinkled on salads, soups, and desserts for a splash of color and a mild, peppery taste.
- Homemade Cosmetics: The petals can be infused in oils and used in homemade skin lotions, balms, and creams for their skin-soothing properties.
- Rituals and Ceremonies: In some cultures, calendula flowers are used in ritual offerings and to adorn sacred spaces.
- Photography: The striking contrast of the deep orange petals against the dark center makes Calendula a popular subject for botanical photography.
- Culinary Oil Infusions: The petals can be infused in culinary oils, imparting a golden hue and subtle flavor, ideal for dressing salads or finishing dishes.
- Flower Confetti: Dried calendula petals can be used as a biodegradable confetti for celebrations, reducing the environmental impact of traditional confetti.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Marigold is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Marigold is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Calendula officinalis, commonly known as pot marigold, has been used for centuries in herbal medicine for its healing properties. It symbolizes the ability to restore health.
- Comfort: The warm, vibrant colors of the pot marigold's flowers are often associated with comfort and a sense of being cared for, making it a symbol for soothing troubled hearts.
- Protection: In the past, pot marigold was thought to provide protection against evil spirits and disease, perhaps due to its strong scent and healing abilities.
- Sunshine and Light: With its bright orange and yellow flowers, pot marigold symbolizes the warmth and power of the sun, as well as positivity and the light that dispels darkness.
- Renewal: Because pot marigold can bloom throughout many months of the year and is known for its regenerative properties, it represents renewal and the cyclical nature of life.
WaterPot marigolds, including the 'Indian Prince', should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Depending on the weather conditions, watering once or twice a week may suffice, but in hotter, dryer periods, more frequent watering may be necessary. Use around one to two gallons of water per plant each week, depending on the size of the plant and the environmental conditions. It's important to water deeply to reach the roots, rather than just wetting the surface. If rainfall is sufficient, you can reduce the amount of supplemental water you provide.
LightPot marigolds prefer full sun, so the 'Indian Prince' should be situated where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. They can tolerate partial shade but will bloom more prolifically with ample sun. The best spot for these flowers would be in an open area away from larger plants that could shade them.
TemperaturePot marigolds can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefer conditions between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive short periods of colder weather down to 25 degrees Fahrenheit and can handle heat up to around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range allows for the best growth and flowering.
PruningPot marigolds should be pruned to remove spent flowers and encourage continuous blooming. The 'Indian Prince' should be deadheaded regularly, removing faded or dead flowers to promote further flowering. Pruning can be done throughout the blooming season, ideally in the cooler parts of the day. This also helps to maintain plant shape and health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPot Marigolds prefer well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Amend heavy clay soils with compost and peat moss to improve drainage. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part compost, and one part perlite or sand makes for an ideal growing medium.
RepottingPot Marigolds generally do not require frequent repotting. However, if grown in containers, repot every 1-2 years or when the plant appears to be outgrowing its current pot to encourage healthy growth.
Humidity & MistingPot Marigolds can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels and do not require any special humidity conditions. They thrive in outdoor environments where the humidity is natural and not controlled.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Pot Marigold in a sunny spot; water modestly.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil; water when topsoil is dry.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleCalendula officinalis 'Indian Prince', commonly known as Pot Marigold, begins its life cycle as a seed, sown in spring or autumn. The seeds germinate, given moist soil conditions and appropriate temperatures, leading to the establishment of seedlings. These seedlings develop a rosette of leaves and a root system before sending up flower stalks. Flowering occurs in early to mid-summer, or within weeks in optimal conditions, where the vivid orange-red blossoms with a dark crimson base attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds, completing the cycle. If conditions allow, Pot Marigold may self-seed and perpetuate new plants without intervention, making it a resilient annual in many gardens.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Calendula officinalis 'Indian Prince', commonly known as pot marigold, is most popularly propagated by seed. The best time to sow pot marigold seeds is in early spring, after the risk of frost has passed, although they can also be sown in the fall in milder climates. To propagate, seeds should be scattered lightly over prepared soil and gently pressed into the surface, as they need some light to germinate. Spacing is not critical as seedlings can easily be thinned out. The seeds typically germinate within 5 to 15 days when kept at a temperature of around 70°F (21°C). Once the seedlings are sufficiently large, they can be thinned and transplanted to their final positions, either in garden beds or containers, spaced roughly 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) apart to allow for proper growth. Seed propagation remains the most popular method due to its straightforward nature and high success rate.
