'Radio' Calendula

Calendula officinalis Origin: Unknown (originally Mediterranean) Improvement status: Cultivar Seeds per packet: ~55 Germination tested 12/2024: 94% Life cycle: Annual  This fun and useful variety comes to us from our friend at Wild Garden Seeds who write this about it: "Clear bright orange petals are rolled lengthwise into quills for a 'cactus dahlia' effect. This variety was new back when the radio was a new home entertainment center. Introduced around 1930, this 'pot marigold' became a common form for a generation, then faded from production." In recent years, 'Radio' has become popular both for ornamental use and as a good source of fresh or dried petals for making medicine. Calendula itself is an old-school plant experiencing a major resurgence in popularity. The leaves are edible (better after boiling), but it's the flowers that are the main attraction. The petals have long been used as an edible garnish, natural food dye and subtle flavoring (much like saffron, though with a diff