Fresh Marigold Flowers

Marigolds are comprised of tiny florets surrounded by many layers of delicate, ruffled petals and a thick hollow stem with fernlike leaves. The flowers have a pungent, sharp, and musky aroma that can be considered unpleasant. The flowers also have a robust citrusy flavor with a peppery and bitter finish. Marigolds have cheery, pom-pom, anemone, or daisy-shaped inflorescences in colors ranging from yellow and gold to orange, red, and mahogany. Some unique cultivars have striped, bicolor, or creamy white blooms. Members of the genus Tagetes have attractive yellow, orange, or red composite flowers that are solitary on the stems or clustered.