Calendula (Pot Marigold)

Origin: Spain

Family: Asteraceae
Subfamily: Asteroideae
Supertribe: Asterodae
Tribe: Calenduleae
Scientific Name: Calendula officinalis

Folk Names: Bride of the sun, drunkard, goldes, holigolds, husbandman’s dial, marigold, marybud, Mary Gowles, ruddes, ruddles, spousa solis, summer’s bride

Magical

Element: Fire
Day: Sunday
Planet: Sun
Zodiac: Leo
Deities: Sun deities

Parts used: Flowers

Magical Properties: Happiness, love, protection, prophecy, balance

Substitutions: Wattle

Magical Uses

• Sleep with a flower under your head to bring clairvoyant dreams.

Gather calendula flowers at noon for maximum effect.

Botanical

Type: Flowering herb
Plant Height: 80cm
Leaves: Hairy, pointed/oval leaves, 5-17cm long
Flowers: 4-7cm diameter, bright yellow, many-petalled flowers

Etymology: From the Latin calendae for “little calender” (or possibly “little clock”)

In the Garden

Type: Annual
Sow: Autumn
Light: Sunny
Water: Do not over-water
Soil: Draining

Tips:

• Pick flowers just as they’re opening.