Calendula officinalis Kinglet Mix Seeds- Pot Marigold

The 'Kinglet Mix' Marigold is a new variety of Calendula officinalis in a mix that brings a refreshing touch to the genre. It consists equally of flowers in shades of golden apricot, dark lemon yellow (sometimes with almost white outer petals), and rich orange. Two or three rows of long petals surround a tight cushion of shorter petals, forming a ridge-shaped dome at the centre. This annual plant forms a medium-sized, very floriferous, sturdy plant that is wind-resistant and fits well in sunny borders and containers, bringing them to life for weeks. Easy to grow in ordinary soil, it is sown between March and April and starts flowering approximately ten weeks after sowing.

The Calendula officinalis belongs to the aster family, possessing the characteristic inflorescence in the form of a daisy-like head. 'Kinglet Mix' is a recent variety. The annual plant forms a clump of strong, ramified stems in a few months, giving it a compact appearance. It reaches a height of 45 to 60 cm and a width of 40 cm. Its lanceolate leaves are velvety and highly aromatic when crushed. Their bright green colour provides a beautiful setting for its cheerful flowers. Its flowering starts in June and continues regularly until late summer, attracting numerous pollinating insects. Each head is composed of a centre of fertile florets surrounded by many long "petals" which are actually ligulate flowers gathered in a crown. This crown opens in the sun and closes at night or in overcast weather. The seeds of the Marigold spread easily in various ways: by the wind, falling to the ground, but also by clinging to clothes and animal fur, as these small hooks are barbed. They self-sow easily as their germination is not hindered by the cold. Seedlings thrive in all types of soil, as long as they receive ample sunlight throughout the day.

The 'Kinglet Mix' Marigold is a wise choice for those looking to quickly create a flowery border or fill a container on a sunny terrace. This plant harmonizes well with colourful Dahlias and swaying ornamental grasses. It is also enhanced by foliage plants such as artemisias or silver stachys, as well as tansies. Salvias, roses, and Love-in-a-Mist Nigellas form perfect duos with calendulas. Besides its ornamental qualities, calendula is an edible flower to be enjoyed in moderation, adding flavour to salads, soups, or desserts, reminiscent of a peppery taste.

Listed in gardens since the 12th century, the Marigold has virtues utilised in various fields. Primarily a dye plant used for pigment, it is also employed in cosmetics, pharmacology, and homeopathy for its soothing, astringent, healing, anti-inflammatory, and hepatic properties, among others. Its nickname of Faux Saffron comes from its culinary use. Indeed, the Marigold effectively substitutes this spice by colouring rice dishes, stews, soups, and herbal teas. When raw, it flavours cheeses, salads, and even butter. Furthermore, it has long been established in the vegetable garden as an ally to other edibles, as it repels nematodes and attracts numerous pollinating insects.