Calendula Buff Pygmy Seeds - Dwarf, Warm-Toned Blooms

Calendula Buff Pygmy

Description

This charming dwarf variety produces compact, well-branched plants covered in beautiful double two-tone buff flowers with a striking mahogany reverse to each petal. The warm, earthy colouring creates a unique vintage look that stands out beautifully in beds, borders, and patio containers. Calendula are one of our favourites with its range of colours and because of its easy to grow.

Reaching around 30 cm (12"), it’s ideal for mass plantings, edging, and sunny pots where the richly toned blooms can really shine. A hardy annual/hardy biennial, it’s easy to grow and flowers reliably from June to August, offering warm summer colour with minimal fuss.

Key Features

Two-tone double flowers – buff petals with a mahogany reverse

Compact 30 cm plants – ideal for borders, edges & containers

Hardy annual / hardy biennial – dependable and easy to grow

Great for massed planting – creates a stunning, warm display

Perfect for sunny patios – thrives in full sun

Flowers June to August – long summer colour

Growing Instructions

Sow outdoors from March to June in well-prepared soil. Lightly cover the seeds and keep moist until established. Germination takes around 2 weeks. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, thin or transplant to around 20–25 cm apart. We both sow in seed trays and scatter seeds in general borders. 

Grow in full sun for the best colour and flower production. Plants are naturally compact, needing little support. Water during dry spells and deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering. Flowers from June to August.

FAQs — Calendula ‘Buff Pygmy’

How big does Calendula ‘Buff Pygmy’ grow?
This is a naturally dwarf variety, reaching around 20–25 cm tall — perfect for small gardens, borders, and containers.

What colour are the blooms?
Expect soft apricot-buff flowers with a warm, vintage feel. They add a gentle glow to any display.

Is it easy to grow from seed?
Yes — very. ‘Buff Pygmy’ germinates quickly and grows reliably, even for first-time gardeners.

Where should I plant it?
Choose full sun for the best colour and bloom count. It’s happy in most well-drained soils and doesn’t need much fuss.

When will it flower?
Plants typically bloom from early to late summer. Regular deadheading keeps the display going strong.

Can I grow it in pots?
Absolutely. The compact size makes it ideal for patio containers, balcony pots, or tight spaces.

Is it good for pollinators?
Yes — bees love calendulas, and ‘Buff Pygmy’ is a great little nectar source.

Will it come back next year?
Usually grown as a hardy annual, though it may overwinter as a short-lived biennial in mild areas. It often self-seeds gently.

How far apart should I space the plants?
Space seedlings 15–20 cm apart to keep them tidy and well-shaped.

Do the petals have traditional calendula uses?
Yes — like other Calendula officinalis varieties, the petals are edible and suitable for herbal or cosmetic use when grown organically.