Calendula is a traditional garden flower and culinary herb, which has recently become a popular choice for bedding displays. Flowers are multicolored in nature and the form ranges from simple semi-double to fully double with prominently crested centres. A cool-season plant, calendula can be started indoors under grow lights 6-8 weeks before the last frost or directly seeded outdoors after the last winter cold. Seeds germinate in 5-15 days. Plants produce uniform, long lasting cut flowers all summer long. This dwarf variety is more compact than other varieties and is just right for the front of the border and in sweeps along pathways. For best results, grow Calendula ‘Fiesta Gitana’ in light, nutrient-poor, free-draining soil in sun or partial shade. Some parts of these flowers are edible. The slight peppery taste of the flowers can be used with breads for extra flavour with a touch of bright colour. It can also be utilized as a substitute for saffron when colouring rice dishes.