Algerian Marigold
calendula algeriensis
Also known as: ["Algerian Marigold","Calendula maritima"]
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae, native to coastal regions of Algeria and Spain.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Calendula |
| Botanical Name: | Calendula algeriensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or container on a patio
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 4–6 weeks during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove dead or leggy stems and faded blooms.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in arid regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering; use organic options for slow release; stop feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed sowing.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply hormone (if used).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer for cuttings; sow seeds in spring after last frost.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light for cuttings; full sun for seedlings.
Medium
Well-draining mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss) for cuttings; direct sow in garden soil for seeds.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development for cuttings.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 2–4 weeks; seeds germinate in 7–14 days and establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or snip stems just above a leaf node or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to encourage bushier growth and remove spent flowers for continuous blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/faded parts; shape plant; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to frost damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., row covers); move potted plants indoors; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply and mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCalendula algeriensis is not considered toxic to cats. It may be used topically for skin conditions or internally in small amounts under veterinary guidance.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCalendula algeriensis is not considered toxic to dogs. It may be used topically for skin conditions or internally in small amounts under veterinary guidance.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCalendula algeriensis is not considered toxic to humans. It is commonly used in herbal medicine and cosmetics for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Calendula algeriensis edible?
A: Yes, the flowers and leaves are edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish.
Q: Does Calendula algeriensis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I water Calendula algeriensis?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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