Queen Sophia French Marigold CherryGal Organic Edible Heirloom Flower Seeds 2026

QUEEN SOPHIA FRENCH MARIGOLD (Tagete patula) is a classic open-pollinated heirloom usually grown as a border around vegetables because of its size -- approximately 18" -- of nicely rounded and beautiful foliage -- and reputation for repelling insects. The brilliant orange petals are rimmed in bright yellow atop lacy green foliage. Also attracts pollinators! Annual, but heartily self seeds - I have not been without dozens of volunteers each Spring since my initial planting over 20 years ago. Edible (see below) so being Organic is very important. 60 days. 25 seeds.

HISTORY, FOLKLORE & CULINARY: The Marigold was the "flower of the dead" in pre-Hispanic Mexico and is still used in such commemorations today. And for those who believe in faeries, old British folklore says a wash of marigold water over the eyes improves the ability to see these creatures! The petals also make exceptional food coloring. Scattering a few petals on a salad provides exquisite color and a delicate floral/slightly spicy taste. But pinch the petals to pull off and snip off the ends closest to the stem which can be bitter.

DYERS: Produces a yellow-gold color depending on mordant; alum makes it lighter while iron gives more intense darker shades.

GROWING TIPS: Easy to grow. Direct seed by broadcast method after danger of frost in Spring. Can also be started indoors 3 to 4 weeks before last frost in lower zones.

SEED SAVING TIPS: Weather is an important factor in successfully saving marigold seeds, because the heads often don't mature until late in the season -- a time when many of us experience successive rain storms. So do not harvest heads early and not until they are absolutely crispy dry! A tricky business and some years a tall order. Then, bring in and dry on paper before crushing to extract the seeds. Use only those with dark black full seed heads.

CherryGal has been providing Organic, non-GMO, Heirloom seeds to the home gardener since 1999. Seeds are either certified organic, or organically grown in my organic garden using sustainable organic practices. Seeds are not treated and are fresh to the year indicated in the title. Packets are small because we want each gardener to be able to afford a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers. By growing such a variety, you will be attracting pollinators and adding to the beauty and enjoyment of your backyard garden.