Calendula (Pot Marigold) flower

Edible Flower #9: Calendula (Pot Marigold)

Not to be confused with common marigolds (Tagetes sp.), Calendula officinalis (or “pot marigold”) is an herb used for centuries for its medicinal properties. You’ve probably seen it as an ingredient in healing creams and salves.

In cooking, the flowers lend a bright yellow color that earned this plant the nickname of “poor man’s saffron.” Add them fresh (or dried and crushed) to color rice and soups, but don’t overdo it – the flavor can be a little bitter.

Calendula is an annual that’s perfect for containers and flower beds, growing one to two feet tall and blooming all summer. Grow in full sun to part shade, and be sure to harvest the flowers to encourage more blooms!

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Danny Lipford

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Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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