Colossus Marigold Seeds - Tagetes patula

Tagetes patula Colossus, also known as French marigold or spreading Colossus marigold, is one of the most spectacular and easiest flowers to grow. Its flowering extends throughout the summer, until the first frost, offering enormous heads that are fully double and variegated with golden yellow and mahogany red. Early, floriferous, and foolproof, this already ancient variety continues to be a great success. It is ideal for borders or pots, and will thrive in all gardens, from the simplest to the most elaborate. It should be grown in well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade.

Tagetes patula is an herbaceous annual plant of the aster family, native to tropical regions of the Americas, from Mexico to Bolivia. The plants in the 'Bonita Mixed' selection quickly form small bushy clumps with a spreading habit, reaching 30 cm (12in) in height and 40 cm (16in) in width. They are covered with dark green, highly divided, pinnate foliage that is strongly aromatic, which some people may find unpleasant. The flowering period extends from July to October, with regular deadheading of faded flowers. The plants produce magnificent double heads of flowers, of a good size (approximately 7-8 cm (3in)), with slightly ruffled ligulate petals (the flowers located at the periphery of the head, well developed) that are perfectly arranged. They come in solid or variegated colours, in a range of bright yellow, orange, bronze and copper. This plant readily self-seeds in the garden, but not always true to the original variety.

Marigolds are star plants in summer borders. They are sometimes criticised for their garish colours and neat habit, but they are so cheerful, easy to grow and floriferous that it would be a shame not to enjoy them in borders and containers. They can be scattered among the grey foliage of artemisias and stachys, or surrounded by greenery, paired with tansies, Kochia Childsii, or small grasses that will temper their flamboyant colours. Marigold is also an edible flower that can be enjoyed in salads, soups or desserts. Some say that its flavour resembles that of passion fruit.

The scent of marigold foliage, and the substances secreted by their roots, repel certain pests, which is why these plants are often placed among the vegetables in the vegetable garden.