Calendula Calendula Powerdaisy Tango = 'Kercaltan' (Powerdaisy Series)
ABOUT
The Calendula Powerdaisy Tango, often known simply as the Powerdaisy, features a vivid display of daisy-like flowers. These blossoms boast a bright sunny hue with a central disc that is typically darker, often a deep russet to brown shade, which creates a striking contrast against the golden petals. The petals are arranged in a regular, overlapping pattern that radiates out from the center, giving the flower a full and cheerful appearance. The leaves of the Powerdaisy Tango are generally lance-shaped, featuring a deep green color that complements the brightness of the flowers. The foliage has a somewhat fleshy texture, contributing to the lush and robust visage of the plant. Its leaves may display a slight serration on the edges, giving them a bit of texture when viewed up close. This variety of Powerdaisy is especially appreciated for its continuous blooming habit, producing a generous profusion of flowers that can cover the plant for an extended period. The overall appearance of the Calendula Powerdaisy Tango is one of vibrancy and warmth, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their garden spaces.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Pot Marigold, English Marigold, Garden Marigold, Poet's Marigold.
Common names
Calendula Powerdaisy Tango = 'Kercaltan' (Powerdaisy Series).
- Toxicity
To humans
The common name for Calendula Powerdaisy Tango = 'Kercaltan' (Powerdaisy Series) is simply Calendula. Generally, calendula is not considered toxic to humans and is actually used in a variety of culinary and medicinal applications. However, it is always possible for individuals to have allergies or reactions to any plant. If a person ingests calendula and experiences symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or an allergic reaction, they should seek medical attention.
To pets
For pets, specifically cats and dogs, Calendula is also not generally considered to be toxic. It is commonly used in topical skin treatments for pets due to its healing properties. However, as with humans, individual pets may have sensitivities or allergies. If a pet consumes calendula and shows any signs of distress such as gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction, it would be prudent to consult a veterinarian.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 feet (30 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Attracts Pollinators: The vibrant flowers of this plant are appealing to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which helps promote pollination in the garden.
- Low Maintenance: It is known for its ease of care, requiring minimal attention once established in an appropriate environment.
- Long Flowering Period: This variety typically has a long blooming season, often from early spring until frost, providing extended color in the landscape.
- Drought Resistant: Once established, it has a good degree of resistance to drought, making it suitable for gardens with less frequent watering.
- Edible Flowers: The petals are edible and can be used to add color to salads and other dishes, although you've excluded culinary usage from the scope.
- Frost Tolerance: It exhibits a certain level of frost tolerance, making it more resilient in cooler climates compared to other less hardy varieties.
- Versatile Planting: Can be grown in flower beds, borders, containers, and as an ornamental in mixed plantings, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Bright Coloration: With its lively orange-red petals, it adds a pop of color, creating an aesthetically pleasing addition to any garden palette.
- Rapid Growth: It tends to grow quickly and fill in spaces, making it an excellent choice for establishing a garden display in a shorter time.
- Good Companion Plant: It can be planted alongside a variety of other species without competing too aggressively for resources.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Natural dye: The vibrant petals of the Calendula can yield yellow, orange, and other warm-colored dyes for fabric and food coloring.
- Culinary Garnish: The edible flowers of the Calendula can be used to add a splash of color to salads and desserts.
- Companion Planting: Calendula can be planted among vegetables to attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings which control pests.
- Plant Marker: Use Calendula's distinctive foliage and flowers as natural markers in your garden to differentiate between plant rows.
- Rituals and Festivals: In some cultures, calendula flowers are used in festivals and rituals as symbols of joy and positivity.
- Crafts: The flowers can be incorporated into homemade wreaths, potpourris, and other dried flower arrangements.
- Photography: Calendula flowers can serve as an excellent subject for botanical photography due to their vivid colors.
- Educational Tool: Use growing Calendula as a way to teach children about plant biology and the lifecycle of flowers.
- Marine Aquarium: Dried Calendula petals can serve as a decorative element in marine aquariums.
- Seed Saving: Collect and save Calendula seeds as a way to practice sustainability and share with fellow gardeners.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The calendula is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The calendula is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Healing: Calendula is commonly associated with healing due to its use in traditional medicine for skin treatment and wound healing.
- Protection: Historically, it was believed that calendula could protect against negative influences and was often used in rituals for this purpose.
- Sunshine and Light: The bright, sun-like appearance of the calendula flower symbolizes warmth, positivity, and the ability to turn towards the light during dark times.
- Renewal: Calendula blooms every month, symbolizing renewal and the cyclical nature of life.
- Empathy and Sympathy: The flower's use for comforting ailments makes it a symbol for sympathy, indicating compassion for others' suffering.
- Grace: The gentle appearance of the calendula is often associated with grace and the beauty of nature.
- Water
Pot marigolds, like the Calendula Powerdaisy Tango, prefer evenly moist soil and should be watered deeply once a week, depending on weather conditions. During periods of high heat or drought, they may require additional water. Aim to apply about one gallon of water per square foot of soil each time you water, ensuring it is absorbed fully into the ground. Always check the top inch of soil before watering; if it feels dry to the touch, it's time to water again.
- Light
Pot marigolds thrive in full sunlight with at least six hours of direct light daily. The best spot to place your Calendula Powerdaisy Tango would be an area that receives ample morning and afternoon sun. While they can tolerate partial shade, they flourish and produce more blooms in full sun.
- Temperature
Pot marigolds prefer a moderate temperature range and can typically withstand minimum temperatures of 25°F to 30°F. The ideal growing temperatures for the Calendula Powerdaisy Tango are between 50°F and 85°F. However, they may struggle in temperatures above 90°F, so it's crucial to provide some afternoon shade if temperatures consistently exceed this range.
- Pruning
Prune pot marigolds to remove spent flowers and encourage continuous blooming. Deadheading, or trimming off the faded flowers, should be done regularly throughout the blooming period. Best done weekly, this process helps the Calendula Powerdaisy Tango focus its energy on producing new blooms rather than seed production.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Calendula, commonly known as pot marigold, thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. A good soil mix for pot marigolds includes two parts peat moss or coco coir to one part perlite or vermiculite and one part compost or well-rotted manure.
- Repotting
Pot marigolds should be repotted annually or when they outgrow their container, typically in the spring.
- Humidity & Misting
Pot marigolds prefer moderate humidity levels but are tolerant of a range of conditions, making them quite adaptable.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright, indirect light and water when dry.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade with regular watering.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
- Life cycle
The life of a Calendula Powerdaisy, also known as Powerdaisy Tango, begins with seed germination, occurring in warm, well-drained soil with ample sunlight. Following germination, seedlings develop into young plants with a rosette of leaves close to the ground. As the plant matures, it grows upright and produces branching stems bearing the signature daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow, orange, or apricot. Throughout the growing season, the Powerdaisy Tango will continuously bloom, especially if deadheaded to encourage further flowering. Upon setting seed, the plant completes its annual cycle, potentially self-sowing if the conditions are favorable. In colder climates, the plant will die back with the onset of frost, whereas, in mild winter regions, it may persist as a short-lived perennial.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-early summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagation for the Calendula Powerdaisy Tango is through sowing seeds. Seeds should ideally be sown in the spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed up. To propagate, first scatter the seeds over a tray filled with a well-draining soil mix. Lightly press the seeds into the soil without completely covering them, as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the tray in a warm, bright location. Germination usually occurs within 5 to 15 days. Once the seedlings grow strong enough and there's no risk of frost, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the garden.