Calendula officinalis (Marigold), flower harvesting

Herbal medicine. Calendula officinalis (Marigild), flower harvesting. Used to colour foods such as butter, syrups, confectionary and rice. Sometimes substituted for saffron. Crushed stems applied to corns and warts are said to make them more easily removable. Sensitive to temperature and dampness (opens in fine weather and during the day), and used as a weather indicator. Its essential oil used in perfumes which have a sharp tang. Shows collected fully open flower heads in bowls at flower bed.