Calendula

Calendulas produce a profusion of daisy-like single or double flowers on low, bushy plants with slightly hairy, aromatic foliage. The flowers are usually bright orange, but also come in cream, pastel yellow or pale orange, sometimes with a contrasting dark centre.

Calendulas are unfussy plants that do well in most ordinary garden soil, including poor, dry soil. They flower best in full sun, but also tolerate light shade.

Very wet, overly fertile soil leads to poor growth. Plants will not flower in deep shade.

Calendula flowers are edible and have a slightly peppery flavour. The petals add colour to salads, soups and many other dishes.