Calendula officinalis 'Touch of Red Apricot (Buff)' – Double, Colorful Marigold

Calendula officinalis 'Touch of Red Apricot (Buff)' belongs to the beloved Touch of Red series, a striking marigold variety that works well as a cut flower and in garden plantings. This annual plant combines ornamental value with ease of cultivation and is ideal for gardeners, growers, and florists looking for a unique, vibrant pop of color in their borders, pots, or flower arrangements.

Characteristics of Touch of Red Apricot (Buff)

• Double or semi-double flowers: The plant produces full, attractive blooms that create a luxurious look both as cut flowers and in garden plantings. The semi-double variety offers an elegant texture, while the double flowers create a lush, eye-catching look.

• Unique color accents: The petals have a soft apricot (buff) appearance on the front and a subtle red hue on the back of each petal. This creates a playful and dynamic effect, making the flowers stand out in bouquets and borders.

• Tall stems: The flowers grow on sturdy stems of about 60 cm, making them ideal for cut flower production and bouquet making.

Cultivation and care

• Sowing and planting: Calendula officinalis 'Touch of Red Apricot (Buff)' can be sown indoors or in a cold frame a few weeks before the last frost. Direct sowing in the garden is also possible as soon as the risk of night frost has passed.

• Soil and location: Plant in a sunny location with well-drained, fertile soil. Regular watering promotes long-lasting flowering, but avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.

• Maintenance: Remove wilted flowers regularly to encourage continued flowering. The plant is robust and easy to care for.

Use in garden and as cut flower

• Cut flowers: Thanks to its sturdy stems and striking color combination, 'Touch of Red Apricot (Buff)' is excellent for cut flowers. The flowers retain their shape and color well in bouquets and arrangements.

• Borders and flower beds: The plant can be planted in groups or mixed with other annuals, creating a vibrant and colorful border. Combinations with pansies, zinnias, or cosmos create a harmonious interplay of colors.

• Pots and patios: The Touch of Red series is also ideal for pots and containers. Its compact growth and striking flowers make it a decorative addition to patios and balconies.

Benefits of Calendula officinalis 'Touch of Red Apricot (Buff)'

• Double or semi-double flowers with a unique apricot/red colour combination.

• Sturdy stems of approximately 60 cm, ideal for cut flowers.

• Long flowering period from late spring to early autumn.

• Suitable for both garden planting and cut flower production.

• Easy to grow and maintain.

Conclusion

Calendula officinalis 'Touch of Red Apricot (Buff)' is a versatile and striking marigold that combines color, elegance, and long-lasting blooms. With its double or semi-double flowers, sturdy 60 cm stems, and unique apricot and red hues, this plant is perfect for borders, pots, and flower arrangements. Whether you want to brighten a garden, decorate a patio, or produce high-quality cut flowers, 'Touch of Red Apricot (Buff)' offers a beautiful and vibrant addition to any project.