Calendula Officinalis: Common marigold

Calendula officinalis, otherwise known as common marigold, is a short-lived flowering plant in the daisy family. There are numerous cultivars available, offering a wide range of colours and forms. Marigolds are easy to grow in sunny locations outdoors during the summer months and indoors over winter. Their tolerance of a wide range of soil types has earned them a reputation as one of the easiest and most versatile plants to grow, while their many uses have made them a staple in home gardens.

Marigold offers a range of benefits when planted in your garden, including:

Trap cropping: Certain pests, such as whiteflies, aphids, and thrips, are attracted to marigolds. Strategically planting marigolds around valuable crops can help reduce pest pressure on your main plants while limiting the need for insecticides. If pesticides are used, it is recommended to monitor the marigolds regularly and treat them when required to prevent pest populations from getting out of control.

Beneficial insect attraction: While pest insects are attracted to marigolds, so too are many beneficial insects. Ladybirds and lacewings feed on aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, thrips, and other common garden pests. Including marigolds in your garden can help divert pests away from your crops while encouraging natural predators to keep pest populations in check. You might even find you need fewer pesticides.

Pest repellent: Just when you thought it couldn't get any better, the mighty marigold has also been reported to repel certain pests, including root-knot nematodes and mosquitoes.

Calendula officinalis has also been used traditionally for its medicinal properties. A resin concentrated in the sticky green base of the flower (and to a lesser extent on the petals) has traditionally been used to help soothe a variety of skin conditions, including:

  • Cuts
  • Abrasions
  • Eczema
  • Ulcers
  • Dermatitis

When preparing calendula for traditional medicinal use, it is preferable to use whole, cut-and-dried flower heads rather than plucked petals. This helps ensure the maximum amount of resin is extracted into the finished product. Dried marigold flower heads can be used to make a variety of preparations, including infused oils and salves. To help maximise resin production, we recommend using Green Planet's Rezin. Always seek professional advice before using marigolds for their medicinal qualities. 

Whether you're an experienced gardener or just getting started, Calendula officinalis is a rewarding plant that benefits both your garden and you.