The Maya actually cultivated marigolds long before the French. The ancestors of French marigolds, Tagetes patula, were native to Mexico and Guatemala. French horticulturists merely hybridized the varieties that are now most popular. The largest varieties can grow a foot high and broad. Most, though, stay significantly lower as compact bedding plants.

Contrary to their popularity during autumn, French marigolds are warm season annuals. With frequent deadheading, they can perform from spring until cool winter weather. They are popular as short term annuals merely because they perform best while young. Bloom is slightly less abundant as they age. They can perform as well for spring as for autumn.

Many varieties of French marigolds are available. Yet, their floral color range is limited to yellow, orange and red. Brown flowers are really dark orange. Creamy white flowers are really very pale yellow. White marigolds are uncommon because richer colors are more popular. Like most bedding plants, French marigolds want rich soil and regular watering.