Are calendula plants perennial or annual?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.The growth cycles of Calendulas are inaccurate, as this plant's growth varies according to climate. In colder areas, Calendula typically completes its life cycle within one year. In warmer regions, Calendulas will grow for multiple seasons. If you keep these differences in growing seasons in mind, you can develop care regimes that result in continuous flowering.
Climate Influence
- Hard frost kills plants in zones below 7
- Mild winters allow survival in zones 8-10
- Heat above 90°F shortens lifespan everywhere
Lifecycle Management
- Collect seeds from annual plants for next season
- Mulch perennial plants before first frost
- Divide established clumps every 2-3 years
Self-Seeding Benefits
- Produces volunteer plants without replanting
- Maintains genetic adaptation to local conditions
- Creates naturalized drifts of color over time
USDA zones are the primary factor in the behavior of calendula. Below zone 8, plants die with the first hard freeze, acting as true annuals. Zones 8-10 offer perennial assertiveness with adequate winter protection. Microclimates such as urban heat islands may even phenomenally shift zones northward.
Even in colder areas, the cycle of self-seeding gives the impression that your plants are perennial. The mature plants drop seeds before they die and will sprout into new seedlings come spring. This natural process provides you with constant blooming flowers every year without ever needing to replant. Leave some flowers to mature and drop their seeds passively or on purpose.
Extend the longevity of calendula with care. Provide well-drained soil to avoid root rot. Avoid overwatering, especially in humid weather. Pinch back stems to encourage the plant to grow more bushy, which will lengthen the flowering period. These steps help extend the period of productivity regardless of growth type.
There are great overwintering strategies for perennial specimens. Apply a 4-6 inch layer of mulch before the first frost. Use frost cloths for freezing periods. Container plants should be moved to a protected place. These types of practices keep your plants alive for an earlier bloom in the spring.
Read the full article: How to Grow Calendula: Complete Guide
