Marigold calendula, also known as pot marigold (and not to be confused with their smaller cousin, the garden marigold (Tagetes sp.), is a favorite plant among herbalists with a place of equal importance in the cutting garden, the kitchen pantry and the home apothecary.

Named after the Latin word calendae because it tends to bloom at or near the first of every month, the plant’s bright orange petals lend vibrant color to many foods and beverages, as well as an abundance of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds to various skin care products. Whole orange marigold calendula flowers include the involucres, the green “cup” at the base of the flowerhead where the plant’s store of resinous oils reside.