Arka Bhanu (F1 Hybrid) is a high-yielding, premium African Marigold variety developed by the ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru.

Key Characteristics & Features of Arka Bhanu Marigold

Flower Appearance: Features large, compact, and dense petal arrangements forming distinct bright golden yellow-orange flower heads measuring roughly 5.5 to 6 cm in diameter.Plant Stature & Stalks: It develops a tall plant stature with long, sturdy flower stalks. The long stalks make it exceptional for both cut-flower bouquets and loose flower stringing (garland making), while the height minimizes bending/drudgery during manual plucking.

Early & Sequential Maturity: It enters an early flowering window, blooming within 40 to 50 days from transplanting. The total harvesting window extends across 2 to 2.5 months, allowing farmers to pluck fresh yields at rapid intervals of every 2–3 days.

High Yield Potential: Shows excellent productivity metrics, producing 500 to 600 grams of flowers per plant, which scales up to an impressive 10 to 10.5 tons of flowers per acre under optimal management.

Longer Shelf-Life: Unlike traditional varieties that spoil rapidly after picking, Arka Bhanu exhibits an extended post-harvest shelf-life of 7 to 10 days, ensuring safe transportation for local and export markets without losing structural integrity.

High Commercial Value: Because of its uniform flower size and vibrant color, it commands high market premiums, particularly during festive peak seasons like Deepawali and Lakshmi Puja.