Calendula ‘Ball’s Orange’ is an heirloom flower known for its vibrant, fully double, bright orange blooms. This easy-to-grow annual grows up to 24 inches tall, making it perfect for cutting gardens, borders, and pollinator-friendly spaces. Calendula is beloved for its versatility – the flower petals are edible, adding a slightly bitter and peppery flavor to dishes, while also being used in herbal remedies. Historically, the petals were dried and used as a saffron substitute and to color butter and cheese.
Pollinators love Ball’s Orange Calendula, and its natural mosquito-repellent properties make it a great addition to outdoor gardens. Thriving in full sun to partial shade, it performs best in well-drained soil and cool weather. Removing spent blooms encourages continuous flowering through spring and fall. An excellent choice for beginner gardeners, it is both easy to grow and highly rewarding.
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All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
• Heirloom
• Organic
• Non-GMO
• Open Pollinated
• Untreated
• US Grown
• Growing instructions included
• Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
Sustainable Packaging & Shipping:
• NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in-house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
• All orders are carefully packed and shipped with tracking via USPS First Class (or Priority, if selected) in padded ECOENCLOSE recycled and reusable mailers, or recycled boxes to protect your items in transit.
Most orders ship out the same or next business day! Please note that this time may be extended during peak season.
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Common Names: Pot Marigold, Ball's Orange
Latin Name: Calendula officinalis
Type: Flowering Plant
Life Cycle: Annual
USDA Zones: 3 - 9
Stratification: Not required
Germination Ease: Easy
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Moisture: Prefers moderately moist, well-drained soil
Soil: Rich, well-drained soil
Height: Up to 24 inches
Spread: 12-18 inches
Color: Bright orange, fully double blooms
Bloom Season: Spring and Fall
Companion Plants: Calendula is a great companion for tomatoes, carrots, and cucumbers. It repels aphids and other garden pests while attracting pollinators.
Climate Adaptability: Thrives in cool seasons but can adapt to warmer climates with proper care.
~ Sowing ~
When to Sow Outside: Direct sow in fall or early spring, planting 1/4" below the surface. Ideal for cooler seasons.
When to Start Inside: 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Plant seeds 1/4" deep in individual pots, keeping the soil evenly moist at 60-65°F until germination (5-15 days).
Days to Emerge: 5-15 days
Seed Depth: 1/4"
Seed Spacing: Thin to 12-18 inches apart
Hardiness: Frost-sensitive annual
~ Growing ~
Soil: While Calendula can adapt to various soils, it prefers well-drained, rich soil. Avoid heavy fertilization, which can reduce flower production.
Watering: Once established, Calendula doesn’t need frequent watering. Keep the soil slightly moist, but avoid overwatering.
Light and Temperature: Thrives in full sun but appreciates filtered shade in hot climates. Cooler temperatures promote better blooming.
Maintenance: Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming. In hot regions, cut back plants in mid-summer to encourage fall reblooming.
Container Friendly: Yes. This plant grows well in containers, making it versatile for patios or small gardens.
~ Harvesting ~
When to Harvest: For fresh flowers, harvest early in the morning when blooms are fully open.
How to Harvest: For culinary use, cut flower heads just as they open. Lay out to dry completely, turning occasionally. Store dried petals in an airtight container.
Edible Use: Dried petals can be used as a saffron substitute or as a garnish for added color and spice. Fresh petals add a slightly peppery flavor to salads.
~ Seed Saving ~
Allow some flowers to mature and dry on the plant. Once dry, collect the seed heads, remove the seeds, and store them in a cool, dry place.
~ Additional Information ~
Forage for Pollinators: Calendula attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.
Origin: Native to the Mediterranean region, Calendula has a long history of use in herbal and culinary practices.
Nomenclature: The name "Calendula" comes from the Latin "calendae," meaning "little calendar," reflecting the plant's long blooming season.
History: Calendula has been used historically to color butter and cheese, and its petals were used in place of saffron.
Climate Adaptability: Prefers cooler climates but can tolerate warm weather with proper care and watering.
