What Does Calendula Smell Like?

Background

• With 15 separate species of the calendula family, this flower packs a subtle variety of smells. Also known as the pot marigold, calendulas have an array of uses in the alternative medicine, cosmetic and hygiene industries. For example, the bitter flower head is often known as an herbal remedy for skin afflictions, such as rashes, as well as working as an anti-fungal and antiseptic. Additionally, some culinary experts find use for this plant's parts in cooking or as a colorful garnish. This garden great is an easily grown annual that thrives best in cool to moderate temperatures with minimal water needs.

Floral Fragrance

• As a natural plant, the calendula is abundant with a fresh floral fragrance. Like other flowers, this specific type of greenery has a distinctive garden-type aroma. Although floral fragrances are highly prized as scents for perfumes and other similar products that aim to cover unpleasant odors or enhance mediocre smells, the actual scent of the flower serves a higher purpose. In the outdoor environment the garden calendula's smell, like its other flower counterparts, actually attracts insects for pollination purposes.

Repellent Smell

• The floral aroma of the calendula might provide you with a pleasant smell, but pests such as mosquitoes may not agree. Although attractive to pollinators, like bees, the pungent scent of this flowering herb may actually repel unwanted insects. If you are looking for a way to keep crop destroying pests away from your precious garden veggies, the calendula's smell may also repel asparagus-loving beetles and tomato-eating worms.

Fragrance and Perfume

• As a major ingredient in many creams, salves, lotions and body care products, the calendula often serves a dual purpose. Used for both its medicinal properties, as well as its scent, this aromatic herb is the perfect companion to a variety of natural-type beauty and hygiene items. From baby lotions to scented deodorant sticks, many of these product types have the pleasing floral notes of the calendula. These may range from light fragrances to stronger, more distinct herbaceous odors. For example, some infant creams and lotions contain a fresh herbal scent while calendula based perfumes may contain a rather overpowering garden aroma.