While we're having a considerably mild fall in PA again this year, calendula has been impressing me with it's hardy ongoing full bloom despite cold nights. Predicted seasonal daytime high temps in mid-40s will keep the bees snuggling in their nests instead of foraging on this one for nectar and pollen, though. Calendula officinalis is native to Europe and the Mediterranean. The name “Calendula” comes from the Latin, calendae, which means “little clock” or “little calendar” because the calendula flowers close at night. Calendula flowers also close before the rain, and it can be used as a simple weather guide, which is why another possible meaning of the name “Calendula” is “little weather-glass”. (tcpermaculture.com). Calendula is a good companion plant for tomatoes, an edible for humans and the orange colored petals just plain makes me happy! #beebloom2016 #beebloom2016cjn #bees #beekeeping #calendula #Calendulaofficinalis (at Central Lawrenceville)