Marigolds are one of the more common annual flowers and with good reason. They bloom all summer and, in many areas, through the fall, lending vibrant color to the garden for months on end. For the most part, marigolds are planted for annual color in pots and gardens, or sometimes around other plants to repel insects. But did you know that marigold flowers are edible? Read on for information about growing edible marigolds.
Key Takeaways:
- Marigolds are one of the more common annual flowers and with good reason. They bloom all summer and, in many areas, through the fall, lending vibrant color to the garden for months on end. For the most part, marigolds are planted for annual color in pots and gardens, or sometimes around other plants to repel insects.
- Marigolds have an extensive history. They were revered by the Aztecs and used medicinally, ornamentally and in religious rites. The Spanish and Portuguese explorers seized upon these golden blooms, not quite gold but golden nonetheless, and brought them back to Europe.
- Marigolds are used in Pakistan and India to dye cloth and make flower garlands for harvest festivals. Here marigolds are used as food as well. The ancient Greeks also used marigolds as food, or rather in it. The use of marigolds is for the most part to add brilliant color, much like saffron threads impart a gorgeous golden hue to dishes. In fact, marigolds are sometimes referred to as the “poor man’s saffron.”
“The Spanish and Portuguese explorers seized upon these golden blooms, not quite gold but golden nonetheless, and brought them back to Europe.”
http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/marigold/growing-edible-marigolds.htm