The Wild Herbalist

Pot Marigold -  Calendula officinalis    Latin: " The genus name Calendula is a modern Latin diminutive of calendae , meaning "little calendar", "little clock" or possibly "little weather-glass'"  (1)  alluding to their habit of closing up when the skies are gray! Description:  This cheerful, hardy plant is a long-blooming annual easily started from seed. All it requires are sunshine, soil, and occasional waterings to reward you with edible and medicinal flowers all growing season long! It is a potent, but gentle herb safe for skincare - even for babies!  (2) Other Names:   pot marigold, ruddles, common marigold, Scotch marigold Folklore:   A 12th century herbal manuscript by Macer Floridus  swore that simply looking at calendula could "improve eyesight, clear the head, and encourage cheerfulness".  (3)  While those promises seem a little fanciful, there may be some truth to them! The bright orange and yellow b...