It is probably native to southern Europe, but its long history of cultivation makes its precise origin unknown, and it is widely naturalised.

Calendula officinalis is a short-lived aromatic herbaceous perennial, growing to 80 cm (31 in) tall, with sparsely branched lax or upright stems.

The leaves are oblong-lanceolate, 5–17 cm (2–7 in) long, hairy on both sides, and with margins entire or occasionally waved or weakly toothed.

The inflorescences are yellow or orange, comprising a thick capitulum or flowerhead 4–7 cm (1+1⁄2–3 in) diameter surrounded by two rows of hairy bracts.

[3] The petals and pollen contain triterpenoid esters, as well as carotenoids flavoxanthin and auroxanthin (antioxidants and the source of the yellow-orange coloration).

Pot marigolds typically bloom quickly from seed (in under two months) in bright yellows, golds, and oranges.

It is recommended to deadhead (remove dying flower heads) the plants regularly to maintain even blossom production.

[13] Flowers were used in ancient Greek, Roman, Middle Eastern, and Indian cultures as a medicinal herb, as well as a dye for fabrics, foods, and cosmetics.

Marigold leaves can also be made into a poultice that is believed to help scratches and shallow cuts to heal faster, and to prevent infection.