Calendula stellata
Sicilian marigold
A highly attractive hardy annual species native to Malta and Sicily, found in rocky valleys near the coast, and currently considered endangered. It has a bushy habit with dark green foliage and bright, golden yellow, single blooms with an orange heart
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow Orange | Green | ||
| Autumn | Orange Yellow | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Calendula can be annuals or woody-based perennials, with simple, aromatic leaves and showy, orange or yellow, daisy-like flower-heads in summer and autumn
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Sicily, N. Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in well drained soil in full sun. Sow direct in spring, 0.5cm deep into finely prepared soil
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in situ in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Mediterranean climate plants
Pruning
Regularly deadhead to extend flowering
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids
Diseases
May be susceptible to Powdery mildews and a virus
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.