Strawberry Calendula Seeds — Calendula officinalis

A Calendula Like No Other

If you thought you knew Calendula, Strawberry Calendula is about to change your mind. While the classic pot marigold comes in sunny oranges and yellows, this extraordinary variety blooms in complex, multi-toned shades that are simply breathtaking — deep strawberry-crimson and rich red on the outer petals, fading through warm peachy-blush to creamy ivory and golden-orange centres. The effect is layered, vintage, and utterly sophisticated. The large, densely petalled pompom-style blooms sit atop strong stems that are made for cutting, and they look just as spectacular in a vase as they do in the garden. A true showstopper that stops people in their tracks and has everyone asking what it is.

Why Gardeners Love It

• 🍓 Extraordinary multi-toned blooms — deep strawberry-crimson outer petals fading to peachy blush and creamy golden centres, unlike anything else in the garden
• ✂️ Superb cut flower — strong stems, densely petalled pompom blooms, and long vase life make this a florist favourite
• 🌸 Long flowering season — blooms generously from late spring right through to autumn, especially with regular deadheading
• 🪲 Outstanding companion plant — calendula repels aphids and whitefly, attracts beneficial predatory insects like hoverflies and lacewings, and makes a brilliant planting partner for vegetables, roses, and herbs
• 🐝 Pollinator magnet — bees and beneficial insects are drawn to the blooms throughout the season
• 🌱 Easy from seed — direct sow or start indoors, germinates readily with minimal fuss
• 🌡️ Cool season performer — thrives in cooler NZ conditions, perfect for spring and autumn sowing

Growing Tips for New Zealand

Sow seeds direct into the garden or into seed trays, covering lightly with seed-raising mix to about 5 mm depth. Calendula germinates readily in cool to mild conditions — ideal germination temperature is 15–20°C. Sow in autumn for winter and spring flowering in mild NZ regions, or in spring for summer blooms. Plant out into a sunny position with well-drained soil, spacing 30–40 cm apart. Deadhead regularly to keep the flowers coming. Try planting alongside your vegetables or roses to put those companion planting benefits to work — beauty and function in one.

What's in the Packet

Each packet contains 10 seeds of Strawberry Calendula, with sowing and growing instructions included.

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