Marigold

an old-fashioned, but attractive garden flower of the composite family. The marigold is a hardy, easily cultivated annual. Both "French" and "African" marigolds are of Mexican origin. They were introduced into England about 1573-96. The wild flowers were much improved by gardeners. Marigolds are noted for a strong odor. In some varieties the inner florets have been developed into straps, giving rise to "double" flowers. The straps have a velvety surface in rich reds, yellows, and browns. Marsh marigolds are early spring flowers belonging to an entirely different family--the buttercup.