Calendula is an annual herb in the daisy family, originating from southern Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean area. It has long been cultivated and is a widespread garden escape in cool, temperate climates. It has been used for many centuries for a range of culinary and medicinal purposes.
Calendula is easy to grow in any well-drained soil in full sun. Seeds can be sown directly in the garden just before the last frost date, but for an earlier bloom, start sowing indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Successive sowing will provide fresh, blooming plants throughout the season.