Last Updated on January 9, 2024
Calendula flowers have always held a special place in my heart. Their vibrant colors and soothing qualities have intrigued me for as long as I can remember.
Whether it’s their cheerful presence in gardens or their versatile uses, calendulas are truly captivating.
In this article, I’m delighted to be your companion on a journey into the fascinating world of calendula flower meaning, spiritual symbolism, and the significance of various colors.
Together, we’ll explore the hidden stories and rich traditions that make calendula flowers a source of both beauty and wisdom.
Key Takeaways
- Diverse Meanings: Calendula, also known as pot marigold, holds diverse meanings ranging from joy and happiness to grief and sorrow. Its significance varies across cultures and historical contexts.
- Roman Origin: The name “calendula” originates from the Roman word “calendar,” as the flower bloomed at the start of each month, symbolizing continual happiness.
- Cultural Symbolism: Victorians associated calendula with sympathy, grief, hope, and October birthdays. In the Middle Ages, it was used for healing during the plague. Roman and Greek cultures used it in ceremonies, while in Christianity, it’s linked to the Feast of Annunciation.
- Indian Significance: In India, calendula is a sacred flower symbolizing brilliance and serenity, often offered to deities like Lakshmi and Vishnu.
- Color Symbolism: Orange signifies joy, yellow represents optimism, cream embodies purity, golden yellow symbolizes richness, apricot denotes passion, red signifies deep love, and mixed colors convey various emotions.
- Numerology Connection: In numerology, calendula is associated with the number four, symbolizing achieving goals, reaching potential, and maintaining balance.
- Dream Interpretations: Dreaming of calendula is often associated with positivity, being true to oneself, and anticipating positive changes. The color of the flower in dreams can carry specific meanings.
- Chakra Healing and Spiritual Practices: Calendula, with its vibrant colors, may be used in chakra healing, particularly associated with the solar plexus chakra. It is also employed in spiritual rituals for personal growth, abundance, and creating a positive atmosphere.
- Overall Symbolism: Calendula represents a symbol of hope, happiness, and positive energy, connecting individuals to nature’s beauty and fostering feelings of gratitude and oneness with the world.
Where Did The Flower Get Its Name?
The Roman word for calendar is ‘calend’. Upon noticing the pot marigold would bloom at the start of each month, the gave the flower the name, calendula. To the Romans, it signified continual happiness.
The genus name of the calendula is calendula ‘tagets’. The word ‘tagets’ is sourced from the god, ‘Tages’.
He was said to give humankind, and to help with optimal use of divination.
In ancient folklore, the calendula received the lovely nickname, summer’s bride’. This was because the flower’s head appeared to move in conjunction with the sun.
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The Flower Meaning
The meaning of the calendula flower varies quite significantly. For some, the flower symbolized grief and sorrow, while to others it represents joy and happiness.
One thing is certain, and that is the recognition and love this flower received. The calendula flower even has links to fame. Shakespeare’s love of the pot marigold was undeniable.
This flower has references throughout his writings.
Cultural Symbolism
Throughout existence the calendula has portrayed a vast amount of symbolism to many cultures. Let’s take a closer look at what this beautiful flower represented to different cultures and eras.
Victorians
- Flowers are used to convey emotions discreetly.
- Calendula symbolized sympathy, grief, hope, and change.
- The birth flower for October.
- Used during the Middle Ages for healing and protection during the plague.
Roman And Greek Meanings
- Central to ceremonies and rituals in Greek and Roman cultures.
- Garlands, accessories, and church decorations.
- Known as ‘Mary’s Gold’ due to the reference to the Virgin Mary.
Christianity
- Presented at the Feast of Annunciation (March 25th) to the Virgin Mary.
- Symbol of patience and faith in the coming of Jesus.
- Used as love charms in early Christian weddings to symbolize pure love.
India
- Sacred flowers symbolize brilliance and serenity.
- Divine link to spirit, used for insight.
- Worn as necklaces and offered to holy statues, including Lakshmi and Vishnu.
Mexico
- ‘Mary’s Gold’ was used on the Day of the Dead.
- Guides deceased spirits at home.
- Decorations for altars, pathways, homes, and garlands.
- Celebratory, not a sad occasion.
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Unlocking the Vibrant Symbolism: What Do Calendula Flower Colors Represent?
| Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Orange | Joy, warmth, happiness |
| Yellow | Optimism, good fortune |
| Cream | Purity, simplicity |
| Golden Yellow | Richness, prosperity |
| Apricot | Passion, desire |
| Red | Deep love, affection |
| Mixed Colors | Various emotions and messages |
- Orange: The most common color of calendula, orange represents joy, warmth, and happiness. It symbolizes enthusiasm and positivity.
- Yellow: Yellow calendulas symbolize optimism and good fortune. They convey a sense of radiance and are associated with success and hope.
- Cream: Cream-colored calendulas represent purity and simplicity. They can convey a sense of charm and elegance.
- Golden Yellow: A deeper shade of yellow, golden yellow calendulas symbolize the richness of life and prosperity. They can be associated with wealth and abundance.
- Apricot: Apricot-colored calendulas represent passion and desire. They are often given as a symbol of love and attraction.
- Red: While less common, red calendulas symbolize deep love and affection. They are associated with strong emotions and desire.
- Mixed Colors: Bouquets or arrangements with a mix of calendula colors can convey various emotions and messages, combining the meanings associated with each color.
Aura, Meditation And Healing With The Calendula
The calendula comes in very handy, when in meditation and working on auras, Some
people picture a calendula blossoming in their solar plexus to improve their feeling of inner strength and power.
They also picture the flower in bloom as a means to increase energy levels and promote feelings of happiness.
Uses Of Calendula Flower Oil
People make use of the oil extracted from the calendula flower for many health benefits. Medicinally, it is known for its antiseptic, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.
As such, it is often used to treat acne, eczema, healing wounds, and diaper rash. It also makes an effective sunscreen.
There are recent claims of the flower’s potential to rejuvenate the skin, However, research is ongoing.
Given the lack of research connected to using the calendula flower, it is recommended against using it when pregnant.
Alternative Medicine Uses
Many people believe in the benefits of calendula flower as a flower essence. The benefits of calendula flower essence include:
- Openness to others
- Self-awareness
- Communication and nurturing relationships
- Empowerment
- Improving memory
The calendula flower essence is a great tincture to help those who may be argumentative and closed off emotionally.
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Herbalists rate the benefits of dried calendula flowers when added to a tea drink. They claim it is especially beneficial in improving the mood, or aiding with feelings of depression.
When a person has experienced a difficult or traumatic situation, a herbalist would recommend the calendula tea to alleviate painful feelings.
As a complimentary medicine, the calendula flower oil is used for relieving painful period cramps.
Mystical, Spiritual, And Superstitious Associations Of The Calendula Flower
The calendula flower brims with links of a mystical, and spiritual nature. Additionally, there are many superstitions that feature the Mary’s gold.
Read on to discover some calendula symbolism, deeply rooted throughout history.
Hanging A Pot Marigold In Your Doorway
Many believed that hanging this flower or a wreath of calendula flowers above your door would protect your home and the people in it.
The protective energies thought to be combined within the flower kept negative or evil spirits at bay.
The Day Of The Dead
The calendula flower is highly symbolic on The Day of The Dead, celebrated each year in Mexico On this day, people sprinkle calendula petals around the home, particularly on the stairs and in the doorway.
The belief being that by doing this, loved ones who had passed would see them, and it would lead them back home.
Witchcraft
People practicing witchcraft (in olden times and still today) claim the importance of harvesting the flower under the highest point of sunlight (noon)). This would achieve the most effective and powerful spell.
Visions
Some people claim that by placing the calendula flower under your pillow before you sleep would encourage insightful, psychic visions and dreams.
Protection Against Slander
Centuries ago, the calendula flower was a component in amulets and hung around a person’s neck as a form of protection. People believed it offered exceptional protective qualities against the onslaught of hostility and mean words.
Prediction Of A Storm
People used to think that if your calendula flower did not open in the morning, it was a sure sign a storm was coming.
Fairy Sightings
In days gone by, a superstition existed that stated if you eat a calendula flower, it would give you the power to see fairies. Luckily, the calendula is largely edible.
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Calendula Flower Dream Meanings
The calendula flower even holds symbolic meanings if you dream of them. Let’s take a look at some dream interpretations of this mystical flower.
- Happiness And Positivity
Firstly, the pot marigold is a highly positive flowering plant. As such, the majority of dreams involving a calendula will be of an optimistic nature.
- Being True To Yourself
The sight of one or more blooming calendula flowers signifies that you are being true to yourself. You are a good person whom emotional pollution can’t affect.
- New Challenges And Change
Seeing open and fresh pot marigolds in your dream can also mean that you are about to encounter changes or new challenges in life.
It tells you that you will move through these changes in the best way, with an outcome that will be incredibly positive.
- Yellow Pot Marigold Is A True Blessing
To dream of this color of pot marigold is an extremely rare occurrence. However, to dream of the yellow pot marigold is a sign the Universe blesses you.
It symbolizes your limitless psychic and spiritual ability, and believed to be a divine gift.
The Calendula Flower: Facts
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Calendula Officinalis |
| Annual Flower | Herbaceous annual flower |
| Daisy Family | Petals resemble daisies |
| Colors | Vibrant mid-deep orange and yellow |
| Height | Typically around 50 cm |
| Edible Parts | Leaves and some flower parts are edible |
| Scent | Sweet syrup tones with hints of warm spice |
| Taste | Mild and sweet, intensifies when dried |
| Native Range | Europe, the Mediterranean, and Asia |
| Global Growth | Cultivated worldwide, adaptable to climates |
| Preferred Conditions | Thrives in sunny, slightly cooler temps |
- Botanical Name: Calendula Officinaris
- Annual Flower: Herbaceous annual flower suitable for year-round cultivation.
- Daisy Family: Petals resemble those of daisies due to their membership in the daisy family.
- Colors: Vibrant mid-deep orange and yellow.
- Height: Typically grows to about 50 cm with multiple flowers on each stem.
- Edible Parts: Leaves and some flower parts are edible.
- Scent: Offers sweet syrup tones with hints of warm spice and sandalwood.
- Culinary And Medicinal Uses: Used in recipes and for medicinal purposes.
- Taste: Initially mild and sweet, becoming more bitter upon drying.
- Native Range: Native to Europe, parts of the Mediterranean, and Asia.
- Global Growth: Now cultivated worldwide, adaptable to various climates.
- Preferred Conditions: Thrives in sunny but slightly cooler temperatures.
Calendula Flower Numerology
In terms of numerology, the calendula flower represents number four. This number symbolizes achieving your goals, and reaching your full potential in life. It greatly associates with the power of manifestation, and making your dreams become your reality.
It also symbolizes the perfect union between following your instincts while maintaining balance.
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Final Thoughts
The calendula is a brilliantly colored and beautiful flower that brims with positivity. Its symbolic value is one of hope, happiness and bright futures. For thousands of years, this amazing flower has promoted feelings of self-worth and joy.
Knowing the metaphorical and physical beauty the calendula possesses, will make anyone who sees it, feel more gratitude and oneness with the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the spiritual significance of the calendula flower?
The calendula flower is often associated with positive energies, joy, and warmth. It symbolizes happiness and enthusiasm, making it a spiritually uplifting and vibrant flower.
What does the color orange represent in calendula symbolism?
Orange calendulas symbolize joy, warmth, and positivity. In spirituality, the color orange is often linked to feelings of happiness and contentment.
Are there any specific spiritual rituals or practices involving calendula flowers?
Calendula flowers are sometimes used in spiritual rituals to promote positivity and happiness. They can be incorporated into rituals that focus on joy, optimism, and well-being.
What is the spiritual meaning of yellow calendulas?
Yellow calendulas represent optimism and good fortune in spirituality. They are associated with the light of the sun and are believed to bring positive energy into one’s life.
Can calendula flowers be used in meditation or spiritual ceremonies?
Yes, some individuals use calendula flowers during meditation or spiritual ceremonies to enhance their connection to joy and positive energies. The presence of calendulas can create a more uplifting and harmonious atmosphere.
What do cream-colored calendula flowers symbolize in a spiritual context?
Cream-colored calendulas are associated with purity and simplicity. In spirituality, they can represent a calm and serene state of mind, often sought in meditation and mindfulness practices.
Do calendula flowers have any significance in chakra healing or energy work?
Calendula flowers, particularly their vibrant colors, can be used in chakra healing to balance and activate the solar plexus chakra. This chakra is associated with personal power, self-esteem, and positivity.
Are there any spiritual rituals involving calendula for personal growth and abundance?
Yes, calendula flowers can be used in rituals that aim to attract abundance, prosperity, and personal growth. They are believed to bring the energies of success and wealth.
What is the symbolism of mixed colors of calendula in spirituality?
Mixed colors in calendula bouquets or arrangements combine various symbolic meanings. They can represent a blend of emotions, energies, and intentions, making them versatile for different spiritual purposes.
Can calendula flowers be used for spiritual protection or cleansing?
While calendula is not commonly associated with protection or cleansing, its positive energy and symbolism can contribute to a spiritually uplifting environment, which may indirectly support these purposes.
He loves to share his expertise and passion with others who share the same love for the world of plants. He finds immense joy in merging his botanical knowledge with his writing skills. This unique blend allows him to thrive in the realm of content creation, particularly when it comes to crafting engaging articles related to plant symbolism.
Jose has written about various topics, such as the meaning of roses, the symbolism of orchids, and the significance of bamboo.
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