The French marigold

You may be surprised to know that this annual species of flower (Tagetes patula L.) known as the French marigold is a native of Tropical America (Mexico, Nicaragua and Bolivia).
The fact that it is now grown widely across the world is undoubtedly due to its striking and abundant flowering and to its fragrance and medicinal properties. In some cultures it is considered a source of spiritual cleansing and health to the point that it is consumed in certain rituals.
It can be found in a wide variety of colours such as reddish-orange, golden yellow, lemon yellow and orange.
In the Alhambra and Generalife it flowers from July to November, after which its seed is collected and stored until it is time for sowing at the end of March or beginning of April. It is planted in May in, preferably sunny, flowerbeds and borders.