Calendula Calendula Powerdaisy Sunny = 'Kercalsun' (Powerdaisy Series)
![marigold [PowerDaisy Sunny]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b5383bc50a.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
The Calendula Powerdaisy Sunny, part of the Powerdaisy Series, boasts a strikingly cheerful appearance. The plant is characterized by its vivid, sun-kissed yellow flowers that resemble the radiant warmth of sunshine. Each flower features an array of bright yellow petals that are neatly arranged in a somewhat circular fashion around a central, darker disc. This contrast creates a stunning visual focus that draws the eye. The petals are smooth and somewhat flat, overlapping slightly to form a full, daisy-like bloom that is the classic hallmark of its common type. In the center, the darker area is peppered with tiny, tubular structures that may vary in color, often attracting various pollinating insects. The foliage of the Calendula Powerdaisy Sunny forms a lush backdrop to its vibrant flowers. The leaves are generally oblong, with their edges ranging from smooth to slightly toothed. They exude a fresh, green color that complements the bright yellow of the blossoms. Overall, the visual allure of the Calendula Powerdaisy Sunny lies in its continuous display of daisy-like flowers that exude a sense of joy and lively color. The plant maintains a bushy and robust structure, contributing to a sense of fullness and vibrancy in the garden space where it resides.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Pot Marigold, English Marigold, Ruddles, Scottish Marigold
Common names
Calendula officinalis 'Kercalsun'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Powerdaisy is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. Members of the Calendula family are often used in culinary applications and in traditional medicine. However, individual sensitivity varies, so if any adverse reactions are noticed after handling or ingesting Powerdaisies, medical advice should be sought.
To pets
The Powerdaisy is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. Calendula plants are generally considered to be safe for animals, and they are sometimes even used in pet products for their soothing properties. However, as with humans, individual animals may have different sensitivities, and it is always best to monitor pets if they ingest any plant material and consult a veterinarian if any unusual symptoms are observed.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to Grow: Calendula Powerdaisy Sunny is known for being easy to care for, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Long Blooming Season: It has a longer blooming season than many other plants, providing continuous color throughout the spring and summer months.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, this plant has good drought resistance, making it suitable for drier climates or water-wise gardens.
- Attracts Pollinators: The vibrant flowers attract beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies, promoting a healthy garden ecosystem.
- Edible Flowers: The petals of Calendula flowers can be used in salads and as garnish, providing a splash of color to various dishes.
- Low Maintenance: It does not require a lot of upkeep, which is ideal for gardeners looking for minimal maintenance plants.
- Container Gardening: Calendula Powerdaisy Sunny is suitable for pots and containers, making it versatile for balconies, terraces, and small garden spaces.
- Cold Hardy: It has a degree of frost resistance, allowing it to withstand cooler temperatures better than some other flowering plants.
- Colorful Display: With its bright yellow flowers, this plant adds cheerful color to garden beds, borders, and outdoor living spaces.
- Disease Resistance: Powerdaisy Sunny has been cultivated for improved resistance to common plant diseases, ensuring a healthier and more robust garden display.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Calendula has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and irritation in the body.
- Wound healing: It's known to promote healing of cuts, scrapes, bruises, and insect bites, thanks to its ability to improve blood flow to the affected area and promote the formation of new tissue.
- Antiseptic: The plant has antiseptic qualities, which can help prevent infection in minor wounds.
- Antifungal: Calendula exhibits antifungal properties, making it beneficial in the treatment of fungal skin infections.
- Skin health: It is often used in topical applications to improve skin hydration and firmness, as well as to reduce the appearance of scars.
- Menstrual cycle regulation: Calendula has been used to help regulate the menstrual cycle and alleviate menstrual cramps, though scientific evidence for this use is limited.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a yellow pigment source: The bright petals of Calendula can be used to make a natural dye for fabrics, giving them a vivid yellow hue.
- In companion planting: Calendula can attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which help control pest populations in the garden.
- As a plant for dye gardens: Those interested in cultivating plants specifically for dyes can use Calendula as one of their key species.
- In creating floral displays: The bright, sunny blossoms of Calendula add a vibrant touch to both fresh and dried floral arrangements.
- As an addition to salads: Calendula's petals, known as "poor man's saffron," can be sprinkled in salads for a splash of color and a slightly peppery taste.
- In homemade cosmetics: The petals can be infused in oils or creams for homemade skin care products, adding color and their own mild properties.
- For decorative cake toppings: Edible flowers like Calendula can be used to garnish and decorate cakes and desserts.
- As a natural fabric color fixative: The petals can be used in the process of 'mordanting,' which helps to fix colors onto fabrics when dyeing.
- For educational purposes: Calendula can be grown in school gardens to teach children about plant biology and the importance of pollinators.
- As a component in potpourri: Dried Calendula flowers can be a colorful and fragrant addition to homemade potpourri mixes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Calendula is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Calendula is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Calendula is traditionally associated with healing due to its medicinal properties, often used in salves and ointments for wounds.
- Protection: In some cultures, calendula is believed to provide protection and is used in rituals to safeguard against negative energies.
- Sunshine and Vitality: The bright, sun-like appearance of Calendula's flowers symbolizes warmth, energy, and the power of life akin to the sun's nourishing rays.
- Constancy and Affection: In the language of flowers, calendula represents reliability and enduring love among friends and family.
- Overcoming Challenges: The plant's resilience and ability to bloom over a long period signify the human ability to manage hurdles and flourish despite difficulties.
- Grief and Remembrance: In some traditions, Calendula flowers are used during Day of the Dead celebrations to honor and remember those who have passed away.
WaterPowerdaisies like the Calendula Powerdaisy Sunny should be watered thoroughly, allowing the water to penetrate deep into the soil, encouraging strong root growth. The frequency of watering should be adjusted depending on the weather and soil moisture levels, but typically, once a week is sufficient. During the peak of summer or in very dry conditions, the frequency may increase to twice a week. Ensure that they receive about 1 gallon of water per plant for each watering session to maintain consistent moisture, but be cautious not to overwater and cause waterlogging.
LightThe Calendula Powerdaisy Sunny thrives in full sunlight, so it's best to position them in a spot where they can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They will tolerate partial shade, particularly in hot climates, but flowering may be reduced. For optimal growth and bloom, an unobstructed south-facing location is ideal.
TemperatureCalendula Powerdaisy Sunny prefers moderate temperatures and can generally tolerate conditions between 40°F and 75°F, with the ideal range being between 55°F and 65°F. While they can endure brief periods outside this range, prolonged exposure to temperatures below 40°F or above 80°F can stress the plants and affect their health and blooms.
PruningPruning is important for Calendula Powerdaisy Sunny to encourage bushier growth and more abundant blooms. Snip off fading or dead flowers (deadheading) regularly to redirect energy to new growth. Perform a more thorough pruning in the early spring or fall to remove dead or weak stems, thin out crowded areas, and shape the plant as desired.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCalendula, commonly known as pot marigold, thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. A soil mix of equal parts garden soil, peat or coconut coir, and perlite or sand is ideal. Aim for a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingPot marigolds should be repotted annually in the spring to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth, or as needed if they outgrow their containers.
Humidity & MistingPot marigolds are adaptable and don't require high humidity; average room humidity is sufficient for their growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, moderate watering.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, ensure good drainage.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleCalendula Powerdaisy Sunny begins its life cycle when a seed germinates, typically in early spring, given sufficiently warm soil temperatures and moisture. The seedling emerges and develops true leaves, forming a small rosette as it enters the vegetative growth stage, focusing on producing foliage and a strong root system. As the plant matures and environmental conditions are right, usually in late spring to early summer, it transitions to the flowering stage, where it produces bright, daisy-like flowers that attract pollinators. The plant will continue to produce flowers over a long blooming period, often until the first frost in the area. After pollination, the flowers will develop into seed heads, and as the plant senesces towards the end of its life cycle, these seeds can be dispersed to create new plants the following season. Throughout its lifecycle, Calendula Powerdaisy Sunny can be propagated through cuttings as well as seeds, allowing for multiplication and spread of the plant beyond its original location.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The Calendula Powerdaisy Sunny, known in gardening circles simply as Calendula, is typically propagated through its seeds. The most popular method is to sow these seeds directly into the garden or into seedling trays. The ideal time to start this process is after the danger of frost has passed, generally in early spring. To ensure a good start, scatter the seeds on well-draining soil and lightly cover them with about 1/4 inch (approximately 6 millimeters) of soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and under the right conditions, you should see germination within a week or two. Once the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, they can be thinned out or transplanted to give them enough space to grow to their full potential. This plant is cherished for its vibrant, sunny blooms that can brighten up any garden space.
