Calendula

Calendula (Calendula officinalis), also known as pot marigold, is an annual herb with striking orange or yellow flowers used both in cooking and traditional herbal medicine. In the kitchen, it is the petals that are used, fresh or dried. They lend dishes a mildly bitter, earthy flavour and a beautiful golden-orange colour, which is why they are sometimes called the poor man'so saffron. Petals are added to salads, soups, rice dishes, butter, cheese and herbal teas. Calendula is rich in flavonoids and carotenoids and has well-documented anti-inflammatory properties. It also makes a stunning edible decoration for cakes and desserts.