Single Orange Porcupine Calendula flower on a white background.
An arrangement of Orange Porcupine Calendulas in a yellow vase on a white background.
Single Orange Porcupine Calendula flower on a white background.
An arrangement of Orange Porcupine Calendulas in a yellow vase on a white background.

Calendula Seeds,
Orange Porcupine

41 Review#FL202 · 50 seeds
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Description

Quilled, spiky petals give these fiery orange blooms a sculptural, almost electric look. The texture catches light and shadow, creating movement and depth across the planting. It’s a bold, expressive flower that adds excitement to the garden while remaining just as useful—ideal for dried arrangements, pressed designs, or herbal teas. A perfect blend of form and function.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Calendula officinalis
Life Cycle
Self-seeding annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
50–60
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
10 in.
Ideal Temperature
65–70°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

Growing Guide

When to Grow

The ideal time to plant calendula depends on your climate. In colder regions, seeds should be started indoors in early spring, about 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. In milder climates, it can also be sown in fall for winter blooming. The plant prefers cooler temperatures and may stop blooming during the peak summer heat, resuming again as temperatures cool​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Calendula seeds can be sown directly outdoors or started indoors. For outdoor planting, sow seeds 1/4 inch deep after the last frost. Once seedlings are established, thin them to about 10 inches apart to allow room for growth. Keep the soil evenly moist during germination, which typically takes 7–14 days​. Calendula self-seeds readily, so allowing some flowers to go to seed can provide a natural source of new plants for the following year​.

How to Grow

This variety grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates. It prefers well-drained soil, rich in organic matter, but can tolerate poorer soils. Regular, moderate watering is recommended, avoiding overhead watering to prevent disease. Mulching can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Deadheading spent blooms will encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season.

How to Save Seeds

Plants easily self-sow the following spring. If growing more than one variety of calendula, you will need to isolate by 1/4 mile from any other calendula varieties, or you can use caging techniques. Seeds are easy to save; the heads turn brown and seeds can easily be harvested in fall. Keep in a cool, dry, dark place until next spring.

FAQ

What makes Orange Porcupine different from other calendulas?

Its tightly quilled, spiky petals give it a striking porcupine-like appearance. Unlike flat-petaled varieties, this heirloom selection produces vivid orange double blooms that make it a standout in borders and cut flower arrangements.

How long does Orange Porcupine calendula bloom?

With regular deadheading, it blooms from late spring until the first hard frost, though flowering slows in peak summer heat and rebounds as temperatures cool - a long season that makes it one of the most rewarding and low-maintenance annuals for home gardeners.

Can Orange Porcupine calendula tolerate heat?

It thrives in cool weather and may slow down during peak summer heat, but it will rebound when temperatures drop in fall. Some afternoon shade in hot climates helps prolong flowering and prevent early bolting.

Questions?

Browse our full range of calendula seeds.

Customer reviews

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