Marigold Konstance Seeds - Tagetes

Tagetes patula x erecta 'Konstance' is a superb variety that produces showy double blooms in rich shades of mahogany red and golden yellow. It blooms reliably and prolifically on tall, sturdy stems from June until the first frosts, attracting numerous beneficial insects. Elegant and fast-growing, this excellent variety is particularly weather resistant. Ideal for edging, borders or pots on the patio or balcony. Grow in well-drained soil, in full sun to part shade.

'Konstance' is a hybrid variety selected from Tagetes patula (French Marigold) and Tagetes erecta (African marigold). It is an annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is not very cold hardy, generally treated as an annual in colder climates. 'Konstance' combines qualities from both its parent species. It quickly forms a small, sparsely branched clump, measuring at least 35 cm in all directions. The dark green, deeply divided leaves have an intense aroma that is sometimes deemed unpleasant. This low-maintenance variety flowers continuously from June to October. It features rather nonchalant-looking double flowerheads that measure about 8 cm in diameter. They are composed of numerous ray flowers. The outer ray flowers are somewhat reflexed, displaying a rich mahogany red colour rimmed with golden yellow; the inner ray petals are a deep yellowish-orange.

Marigolds are star plants in summer flower beds. Brightly coloured and cheerful with a tidy habit, easy to grow and floriferous, they are ideal for borders and window boxes. They can be planted in small patches alongside grey-leaved mugwort and stachys, green-leaved tansies or Kochia Childsii, or small ornamental grasses which will soften their flamboyant colours. Their orange, yellow or red blooms mix well with blue-flowering catmints or perennial flax.

Good to know: Marigold flowers are edible and can be enjoyed in salads, soups and desserts. Some people describe their flavour as reminiscent of passion fruit. The intensely aromatic leaves and the substances secreted by their roots repel various harmful insects, making marigolds an excellent companion plant in the vegetable garden.