Field marigold (Calendula arvensis)
Care, watering, light and tips for Field marigold on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
About Field marigold
Calendula arvensis, also known as field marigold or wild marigold, is an annual herbaceous plant from the Asteraceae family, characterized by its bright, solitary yellow or orange flowers. Its radiant petals surrounding a disc-shaped center make it ideal for borders, cottage gardens, or as a melliferous plant in vegetable patches. Its rustic and cheerful appearance adds a touch of natural color to any outdoor space.
Native range
Mediterranean region of Europe, North Africa, and Southwest Asia.
Care tips
It prefers full sun exposure for abundant flowering, although it tolerates some partial shade. It requires moderate watering, allowing the top layer of the substrate to dry slightly between waterings, and is quite drought-tolerant once established. It adapts well to poor, well-drained soils, even sandy or stony ones, without the need for extensive amendments. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot; it's better to underwater than to overwater.
How to save a dying Field marigold
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or wilting leaves, flowers not opening or drying quickly.
- First aid
- Check soil drainage and moisture. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new ones.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot, or complete lack of sunlight.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, often recovers by adjusting watering and ensuring full sun.