Calendula - Annual.

A traditional marigold with bright orange bloom. It is a relatively hardy plant with edible flowers that can also be used for medicinal purposes if prepared correctly. Beneficial for insects, especially bees, and exceptional as a companion plant as it can be used to attract aphids from more 'important' crops.

Continual deadheading will allow the blooms to continue for as long as possible and it can also be allowed to seed in place if you want a slightly earlier bloom the next year.

Sowing indoors from February on, Direct sowing from March or whenever the last early frost is for you.

Flowering from June to October or November if under cover.