This Week It's French Marigolds

With vibrant blooms that threaten to outshine the sun, which varieties of this long-flowering half-hardy annual make it onto Graham’s list?

IF it’s colour you’re after, pure and simple, then look no further than marigolds – French marigolds, in particular. The intensity of their brilliance is unbeatable, and with the flowers packed so tightly on neat little plants, the effect can be dazzling.

Despite its name, this is not actually a French plant (any more than the African marigold is African). Originally from the mountains of Guatemala and Mexico, seed was brought back to France in the 16th century. From there, the plant spread through Europe, where it was widely grown for its colourful yellow or orange flowers and its essential oils, which are still used by perfume houses today.