Alpha Calendula

About Alpha Calendula

Alpha Calendula, also known as Pot Marigold, presents a versatile and beneficial addition to any garden, especially in permaculture systems. Featuring vibrant orange double-blooms up to 3 ½ inches wide, this herbaceous flower not only adds a striking visual element to landscapes but also serves multiple practical purposes. With edible blooms and significant medicinal properties, Alpha Calendula holds a special place in culinary and herbal traditions.

Distinguishing itself from typical marigolds, Alpha Calendula offers unique benefits and characteristics. Unlike common marigolds (Tagetes spp.), Calendula ‘Alpha’ belongs to the Asteraceae family, sharing similarities with daisies and chrysanthemums while boasting a distinct daisy-like appearance.

In permaculture, Alpha Calendula shines as a dynamic companion plant, attracting beneficial insects like bees and hoverflies while repelling harmful pests. Its deep taproot aids in breaking up compacted soil, thereby improving overall soil health and water infiltration. Beyond its role in supporting ecosystem diversity, Calendula ‘Alpha’ is valued for its culinary versatility and profuse blooming habit. The petals of its flowers can be used fresh or dried to garnish salads, soups, and desserts, adding delightful flavor and vibrant hues to dishes.

How to Grow Alpha Calendula

Our organically grown Calendula plants flourish in full to partial sun and well-drained soil, making them suitable for various garden settings. Whether planted in garden beds, containers, or integrated into a permaculture design, Alpha Calendula brings beauty and functionality to any space.

For gardeners in cooler climates, Calendula can be grown as an annual or overwintered with proper care. In Zones 9-10, it can be planted in the fall to establish during cooler weather or started from seeds in early spring. In colder zones, consider planting in containers that can be brought indoors during the winter months to protect the plants from frost.

Harvest the flowers in the early morning for the freshest and longest-lasting blooms, utilizing them in culinary creations or drying them for later use. With its high resin content, Alpha Calendula is particularly valued for its medicinal properties, commonly used in teas and creams. Whether enjoying its natural benefits, enhancing biodiversity in a permaculture garden, or adding flavor to culinary adventures, Alpha Calendula offers a wealth of benefits for gardeners and ecosystems alike.

Our USDA-Certified Organic herbs are sustainably nurtured, ensuring superior quality and taste for your herb garden.