Calendula officinalis 'Touch of Red Orange' – Double, Vibrant Marigold

Calendula officinalis 'Touch of Red Orange' belongs to the popular 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 vibrant pop of color in their borders, pots, or flower arrangements.

Features of Touch of Red Orange

• 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 and striking look.

• Unique color accents: The front of the petals is intense orange, while the back has a red hue. This two-tone combination creates a playful, dynamic effect, making the flowers stand out in bouquets and borders.

• Tall stems: With sturdy stems of approximately 60 cm, the flowers are ideal for cut flower production and bouquet making.

Cultivation and care

• Sowing and planting: 'Touch of Red Orange' 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 Orange' 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 zinnias, cosmos, or other orange- and red-hued plants 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, balconies, and terraces.

Benefits of Calendula officinalis 'Touch of Red Orange'

• Double or semi-double flowers with a vibrant orange/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 Orange' 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 orange-red hues, this plant is perfect for borders, pots, and flower arrangements. Whether you want to brighten up a garden, decorate a patio, or produce high-quality cut flowers, 'Touch of Red Orange' offers a beautiful and vibrant addition to any project.