Calendula Flowers – Edible Blooms for Beauty and Flavor | SheIsGR.com
Bring both color and flavor to your garden with our Calendula Flowers. These vibrant orange and yellow blooms are not only stunning but also edible, offering a subtle, peppery taste. Known for their ability to attract pollinators and their versatility in both the kitchen and garden, calendula flowers are a wonderful addition to any space. Whether used in cooking, teas, or garnishes for cocktails and mocktails, calendulas provide both beauty and flavor.
Planting Instructions:
Timing: Plant calendula seeds after the last frost, or start indoors 6–8 weeks before your last expected frost date. Calendulas can also tolerate cooler temperatures, making them ideal for early spring and fall planting.
Soil Preparation: Choose well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0). Calendulas can grow in poor soil, but adding compost or organic matter will support stronger growth.
Planting Depth & Spacing: Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep and space plants 6–12 inches apart. This ensures good air circulation and prevents overcrowding.
Watering: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Calendulas prefer slightly moist conditions but will not thrive in standing water.
Growing Conditions:
Grow Zones: Suitable for USDA Zones 3-9 as an annual.
Sunlight Requirements: Calendulas grow best in full sun, but they can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates. They need at least 4–6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive.
Bloom Time: Expect blooms in about 60 days, with flowers continuing to appear throughout the growing season, especially with regular deadheading.
Fun Facts About Calendula:
Calendula is not only prized for its beauty and culinary uses, but also for its medicinal properties. Historically, calendula has been used for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities. The flowers and leaves are entirely edible and can be used in a variety of ways, from garnishes to herbal remedies. Calendula blooms are also known for attracting beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
Flavor Profile and Culinary Uses:
Calendula flowers have a slightly peppery, tangy flavor with a mild sweetness, making them a great addition to many dishes. The petals can be used fresh or dried to flavor both savory and sweet dishes, such as salads, soups, and rice. The leaves also have a similar flavor profile and can be used like a mild herb in cooking.
In addition to cooking, calendula petals make an excellent garnish for drinks, adding both beauty and flavor to cocktails and mocktails. Calendula can also be infused in teas, where its slightly spicy, earthy flavor adds a unique twist. Try infusing calendula petals into a simple syrup for cocktails, or use the flowers to garnish drinks like lemonades, iced teas, or even champagne.
For a unique mocktail or cocktail, infuse calendula petals with gin, vodka, or rum for a colorful, flavorful base. Alternatively, add them to a fruit punch or sparkling water for a refreshing drink with a hint of spice.
Extra Tips for Success:
Calendulas are fairly low-maintenance but benefit from regular deadheading to encourage more blooms. They are also great in containers, making them an easy addition to patios and balconies. Once established, calendulas are fairly drought-tolerant, though they will bloom best with consistent moisture.
Add these versatile Calendula Flowers to your garden today for an edible, colorful addition to both your meals and drinks. Shop now at SheIsGR.com for premium calendula seeds!
 
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