Calendula ‘Pink Surprise’
Calendula officinalis
Description
The name of this variety is a bit misleading—we think it should actually be called Peach Surprise! A unique double-flowered calendula, this cheerful variety looks great in a vase. The soft apricot petals have a glowing orange reverse side, and the warm brown center of the flower reminds us of a cuddly teddy bear. Calendulas are easy to grow and the fastest flowers to bloom from seed—in just 2 months. Often called English marigolds, the plants are loved by beneficial insects. Petals can be used as fabric dye, are edible, and can be used medicinally in salves.
Details
Plant type: hardy annual
Height: 18 to 24 in
Site: full sun
Days to maturity: 60 days
Plant spacing: 9 to 12 in
Pinch: when 8 in tall
Height: 18 to 24 in
Site: full sun
Days to maturity: 60 days
Plant spacing: 9 to 12 in
Pinch: when 8 in tall
Seed Sowing & Growing Notes
Start seed indoors in trays 4 to 6 weeks before last frost; transplant out after all danger of frost has passed. Can be direct-sown and succession-planted every 2 to 3 weeks for continual harvest.
Harvesting/Vase Life
Harvest when flowers are three-quarters open. Foliage is sticky, so wear gloves when harvesting. Expect a vase life of 6 to 8 days.
Details
Description
The name of this variety is a bit misleading—we think it should actually be called Peach Surprise! A unique double-flowered calendula, this cheerful variety looks great in a vase. The soft apricot petals have a glowing orange reverse side, and the warm brown center of the flower reminds us of a cuddly teddy bear. Calendulas are easy to grow and the fastest flowers to bloom from seed—in just 2 months. Often called English marigolds, the plants are loved by beneficial insects. Petals can be used as fabric dye, are edible, and can be used medicinally in salves.
Details
Plant type: hardy annual
Height: 18 to 24 in
Site: full sun
Days to maturity: 60 days
Plant spacing: 9 to 12 in
Pinch: when 8 in tall
Height: 18 to 24 in
Site: full sun
Days to maturity: 60 days
Plant spacing: 9 to 12 in
Pinch: when 8 in tall
Seed Sowing & Growing Notes
Start seed indoors in trays 4 to 6 weeks before last frost; transplant out after all danger of frost has passed. Can be direct-sown and succession-planted every 2 to 3 weeks for continual harvest.
Harvesting/Vase Life
Harvest when flowers are three-quarters open. Foliage is sticky, so wear gloves when harvesting. Expect a vase life of 6 to 8 days.
Sources
How to Grow
Sources
How to Grow
Winter Mini Course: Seed-Starting 101
Learn how to start flowers from seed in this three-part video series
In our upcoming Winter Mini Course, you’ll learn everything you need to know to successfully start flowers from seed, including all of the necessary supplies, step-by-step instructions, special tips and tricks, and how to create a simple indoor seed-starting area.
