Calendula Crown Orange

A crested double calendula in full, unapologetic orange. The 'Crown' types carry a raised centre of short quilled petals surrounded by broad flat guard petals, which gives the flower substance and stops it looking flat on a cut stem.

Stems are sturdier than most calendula, which makes it the one to grow if you want marigolds for the house rather than just for the border. It lasts well in water and the colour holds.

Sow direct in spring or start it in modules, plant it somewhere sunny and lean, and then largely ignore it. Deadhead when you remember. The petals dry well for winter arrangements and are edible fresh.