Sicilian marigold (Calendula stellata)

Also known as: Star Marigold

Calendula stellata, commonly known as Star Marigold, is a flowering plant in the Calendula genus. Known for its star-like blooms, it is primarily used for ornamental purposes.

In This Article

Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Images of Sicilian marigold

Quickly Identify Sicilian marigold

Look for star-shaped flowers and bright, daisy-like blooms. Leaves are typically lance-shaped and green.

Scientific Classification of Sicilian marigold

Phylum

Magnoliophyta

Class

Magnoliopsida

Order

Asterales

Family

Asteraceae

Genus

Calendula

Planting and Growing of Sicilian marigold

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Ceramic, Plastic

How to Water Sicilian marigold?

For Calendula stellata, watering should be consistent but not excessive. Aim for approximately 250 milliliters per watering session, ensuring the soil remains moist without becoming waterlogged. It is crucial to adjust based on the plant’s specific environment, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between sessions.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Sicilian marigold? ›

What should I do if my Sicilian marigold is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Sicilian marigold? ›

How to save an overwatered Sicilian marigold? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Sicilian marigold?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Calendula stellata thrives best in full sun conditions. This ensures optimal energy absorption, leading to more robust growth and abundant flowering, crucial for maintaining its health and aesthetic quality.

How can Calendula stellata get the ideal light exposure? ›

What if direct sunlight is not available? ›

Why is full sun crucial for Calendula stellata? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Sicilian marigold?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for growing Calendula stellata is between 65°F and 75°F. This range ensures optimal growth and development by providing the warmth necessary for vigorous vegetative and floral processes. Such temperatures often replicate the plant's native conditions, promoting healthy foliage and vibrant blooms.

What Soil is Best for Sicilian marigold?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Sand soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Calendula stellata thrives in well-drained soil that prevents waterlogging. Ensuring good drainage helps the plant avoid root rot and other water-related diseases, promoting healthier growth and vibrant blooms. Using a nutrient-rich soil mixture is beneficial for Calendula stellata. Soil rich in organic matter and essential nutrients supports robust growth and enhances the plant's overall vigor and resilience against pests. Maintaining moderate fertility levels in the soil promotes balanced growth in Calendula stellata. Excessive fertilization can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms, so moderation is key for optimal flowering.

How to Fertilize Sicilian marigold?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Calendula stellata, a balanced approach to fertilizing is key. Use a general-purpose liquid fertilizer at half the recommended strength. Apply around 50-100 ml per plant, adjusting depending on size and soil condition.

How to Prune Sicilian marigold?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by removing any spent flowers, cutting just above a leaf node or where new growth can form. Continue by cutting back any overgrown or unusually long stems to maintain shape. This helps in encouraging fuller blooms. Only cut down to just above a leaf node, which ensures that new buds have a chance to grow. Cutting too far down might remove potential growth points, thus limiting blossoming productivity.

How to Propagate Sicilian marigold plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Fill seed trays with a high-quality potting mix. Moisten the soil to create a conducive environment for seed germination. Ensure that the trays have proper drainage holes to avoid soil waterlogging.

Select healthy cuttings from the parent plant, ideally from non-flowering shoots. Ensure the cuttings are at least 4-6 inches long, and remove any lower leaves to reduce moisture loss.

For division propagation, carefully split the root ball into sections, ensuring each section has roots and shoots. Plant each division in separate pots with rich soil to encourage growth.

How to Repot Sicilian marigold plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Signs that Calendula stellata needs repotting include roots growing through the drainage holes or circling the pot's surface. It's ideal to repot during active growth in spring or summer, ensuring the plant has the vigor to establish in new soil. Ensure it has outgrown its current pot and exhausted the soil's nutrients.

Select a pot that's 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one, ensuring it has adequate drainage holes. The chosen pot should provide ample space for root expansion, which promotes healthier growth and optimizes nutrient absorption. Using a well-designed pot helps prevent waterlogging, reducing the risk of root rot.

Opt for a well-draining sandy soil mix, rich in organic matter, to provide essential nutrients and prevent waterlogging. A suitable soil mix supports robust root health, enhances nutrient uptake, and mimics the plant's natural growing environment, ensuring healthy growth and vibrant blooms post-repotting.