The Calendula officinalis Touche of Red Mixed, also known as Garden Marigold or Common Marigold, is a mix of annuals with original colors. Indeed, its semi-double to double flowers are sometimes yellow, or slightly pink, even bronze, and their petals are edged with a discreet burgundy border. The flowering starts from the beginning of summer and regularly extends until the first frost. Giving an antique look to flower beds, it attracts many insects and brightens up bouquets. Easy to grow, it is ideal for beginners and rewards those who let the garden flourish without regular intervention.

Listed in gardens since the 12th century, the Common Marigold has virtues exploited in many fields. It is first and foremost a dye plant, which is used as a pigment. But it is also used in cosmetics, pharmacology, and homeopathy for its soothing, astringent, healing, anti-inflammatory, and hepatic properties, among others. Finally, its nickname False Saffron comes from its culinary use. Indeed, the Marigold advantageously replaces this spice by coloring rice-based dishes, as well as stews, soups, and herbal teas. Raw, it flavors cheeses, salads, and even butter. Moreover, it has long been established in vegetable gardens as an ally to other edibles, as it repels nematodes and attracts many pollinating insects.

Its upright, slightly spreading habit is composed of brittle branched stems, giving it a rather dense appearance. The Marigold naturally finds its place in flower beds and pots, whether alone or in groups. However, shelter it from strong winds. Its lanceolate leaves are velvety and very aromatic when crushed. Their green color provides a setting for the nostalgic shades of its flowers. With their long semi-double to double petals, which are actually ligulate flowers, they surround a dark and warm center and beautifully animate the garden by opening and closing under the sun throughout summer. This period will be extended if you have a mild climate during autumn. Moreover, Marigold seeds spread easily in various ways: by the wind, falling to the ground, but also by clinging to clothing and animal fur because these little crescents are barbed. They will therefore self-sow quite spontaneously, as their germination will not be hindered by the cold and they will thrive in all types of soil, as long as they are in the sun for a good part of the day.

Easy to grow, this 45 cm (17.7 in) tall Calendula will mix well with all wildflowers and romantic-looking flowers from June to September. It will perfectly associate with light grasses and asters.