Marigolds are one of the most beloved flowers in gardens around the world. Known for their vibrant, cheerful colors and easy-care nature, these flowers can be a perfect addition to any garden. But marigolds are more than just pretty blooms. They have a wide range of uses, fascinating historical and cultural significance, and surprising benefits that make them worth growing beyond their aesthetic appeal. Here are five intriguing facts about marigolds that you might not have known.
1. Marigolds Are Native to the Americas
Marigolds are often mistakenly believed to be from places like Africa or France, but these vibrant flowers are actually native to the Americas. There are about 50 species of marigolds that originated in North, Central, and South America. African marigolds (Tagetes erecta) are one example of a flower that has an origin story that may confuse people. Though they were introduced to Africa and named by Europeans after the seeds were imported from Africa, they are originally native to the Americas. Similarly, French marigolds, which are popular across Europe, were heavily cultivated in France, leading to their misleading name. Despite their global distribution, marigolds’ roots trace back to the Americas, where they have been cherished for centuries.
2. Marigolds Are Edible
One of the most surprising facts about marigolds is that they are edible. While many people may think of marigolds only as ornamental plants, their petals are actually safe to consume and can be used in various culinary dishes. Whether fresh, dried, or used in infusions, marigold flowers have a variety of culinary uses. They are rich in carotenoids like lutein, which not only contribute to their bright yellow-orange color but also offer health benefits. The Tagetes lucida, commonly referred to as Mexican tarragon, is especially known for its anise-like flavor and is often used as a substitute for French tarragon in cooking. This variety of marigold, along with others, also makes a flavorful herbal tea. Marigold petals are sometimes used as a natural food coloring for a variety of products, including beverages, baked goods, and even animal feed.
3. Marigolds Are Proven Companion Plants
Marigolds have been used for centuries as companion plants in gardens, particularly around edible crops. They are especially helpful in vegetable gardens, where they are planted around crops like tomatoes and potatoes. Marigolds produce natural toxins from their roots that help to repel nematodes, tiny parasitic worms that can damage plant roots. This makes marigolds a natural and effective pest control solution for many gardeners. However, while marigolds are beneficial for certain plants, they can also inhibit the growth of legumes such as beans and peas. This is because marigolds produce compounds that interfere with the nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the roots of legumes. To avoid this issue, make sure to plant marigolds away from legumes to ensure both plants thrive.
4. Marigolds Are a Favorite of Pollinators
Marigolds are known for their heavy blooming and long-lasting flowers, making them a favorite of many pollinators, including bees, butterflies, moths, and even hummingbirds. These pollinators are drawn to the nectar and pollen that marigolds provide throughout the growing season. For gardeners looking to support their local pollinator populations, marigolds are an excellent choice. If you’re specifically trying to attract more pollinators to your garden, opt for single-flowered varieties of marigolds. These types are easier for pollinators to access because they have fewer petals obstructing their path. Marigolds bloom consistently and require minimal effort to maintain, but regular deadheading will encourage them to produce more flowers instead of seeds, ensuring they continue to provide a vital food source for pollinators.
5. Marigolds Have Cultural Significance for the Day of the Dead
Marigolds are deeply intertwined with cultural and spiritual traditions, especially in Mexico and Central America. One of the most well-known cultural events involving marigolds is Día de los Muertos (the Day of the Dead), a celebration of deceased loved ones that takes place annually on November 1st and 2nd. During this time, marigolds are used to decorate altars, known as ofrendas, and are sprinkled along pathways to guide the spirits of the departed back to the world of the living. The vibrant golden-orange petals and the fragrance of marigolds are believed to help the souls of the deceased find their way home. Marigolds are often placed around candles, personal items of the deceased, and favorite foods to honor their memory. This tradition has grown in popularity over the years, and marigolds are now in high demand during this time of year, with growers producing them specifically for Day of the Dead celebrations. As a result, marigolds have come to symbolize not only remembrance but also the enduring connection between the living and the deceased.
Marigolds are far more than just bright, cheerful flowers. From their native origins in the Americas to their edible petals and cultural significance, these flowers offer a wide array of benefits and fascinating qualities. Whether you’re growing them for their aesthetic value, their ability to attract pollinators, or their role in cultural traditions, marigolds bring more to the garden than meets the eye. They are valuable companion plants, excellent pest deterrents, and edible treats with rich symbolism. If you’re not already growing marigolds in your garden, it’s time to consider adding them to your plant collection for a combination of beauty, utility, and cultural importance.
