I am not sure how I even noticed this little one, down so low.
I call it, “awaiting lunch at the Marigold Cafe “
Photo by: Lynn McDonald, AGC Member
The goldenrod crab spider (Misumena vatia) sits on top of flowers with their first two pairs of legs spread, using those legs to grab and eat insects that come to the flowers.
Calendula Officinalis
Common Name: Calendula, Pot marigold
Annual /Perennial herbaceous plants
Calendula is easy to grow by sowing seeds directly into the soil late fall or early spring. Plant height ranges from 12- 24 inches and at maturity it produces a long secession of yellow and orange flowers from early summer into late fall.
Calendulas are considered annuals, but in USDA zones 8-10, they are categorized as short-lived perennials. When grown in full sun they will often produce flowers well into December; in zone 8 they have been known to flower throughout January, and then start blooming again in earnest by February. Calendulas vivid orange daisy-like flowers brighten up a garden every day, but on a dark and cloudy day they are indeed a welcomed sight.
Calendula Officinalis has many uses, not only are they a delightful garden and cut flower, but its leaves are very fragrant, and the flowers are edible! Traditionally, calendula flowers have been used in German, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking, a few of their uses include; tea infusions, flavoring stews, soups, and egg dishes, substitution for saffron, and to color butter and cheeses. Consequently, cooking with calendula developed its common name: Pot Marigold. Calendula flowers can be eaten raw too, use them in salads, for decorating baked goods, and as a nifty drink embellishment. Freeze flowers in water in ice-cube trays, then add cubes to drinks, serving pitchers or punch bowls. It’s best to grow them organically when using for consumption.
For centuries calendula has been used for herbal remedies, and for natural dyes. Currently, flowers are used commercially worldwide as herbal teas, ointments, tinctures, and oils for homeopathic remedies. Historically, flowers were once widely used to dye fabrics, producing beautiful yellow, orange and brown colors. Presently, fabric-crafters and artisans still use calendula flowers for its fine natural-dyeing characteristics.
Grow some Calendulas, you will not be disappointed.
USDA Zones: 2 to 11
Water: Medium
Attracts: Butterflies
Tolerate: Rabbit, Black Walnut
Garden uses: Beds, Borders, Cottage gardens, Cutting gardens, Pollinator gardens, Pots/containers
submitted by: Carlotta Lucas
