Golden Marguerite - Chrysanthemum segetum seeds

The golden daisy, also known as corn marigold or Chrysanthemum segetum, is an annual bushy plant of rapid growth, a flower of harvested fields, which can be found here and there, without noticing it, until it overwhelms its vegetation with magnificent suns, in different shades of yellow, from summer to early autumn. This melliferous and nectariferous plant is perfect in the slightly wild areas of the garden, and its flowers hold well in bouquets. To be cultivated in the sun, in loose soil, devoid of limestone.

This Chrysanthemum segetum is an annual plant native to North Africa and the eastern Mediterranean basin, now widespread in many temperate regions, including France. This species, officially called Glebionis segetum, is also known as corn marigold or cornflower depending on the region. It reaches a height of 50 to 60 cm (23.6 in), depending on the growing conditions, and has an upright and branched tufted habit. The flowering period extends from June to September, above a well-furnished foliage. Its inflorescences are large solitary heads measuring 4 to 6 cm (2.4 in) in diameter, carried on thickened branches at the top. They are a beautiful bright yellow, more or less orange or golden, and very visited by pollinating insects. The foliage differs depending on its position on the stem: lower leaves are deeply cut towards the base, narrowed into a petiole, upper leaves are oblong-lanceolate, embracing, dentate or entire. Their color is a glaucous green, slightly bluish or grayish. The seeds, produced abundantly, are a feast for birds. This plant easily self-seeds in well-worked soil, but not limestone.

Originally from the Mediterranean region, the corn marigold likes warmth, sun, and rather neutral or sandy soils. It is ideal for creating a natural garden or easy maintenance flower beds. It can be associated with annual cornflower (Centaurea cyanus), milk thistle (Silybum marianum), alfalfa (Medicago sativa), phacelia (Phacelia tanacetifolia), or dame's rocket (Hesperis matronalis) to feed bees and butterflies. It can also be grown in a large pot, provided it is pinched often to give it a more compact habit. The flowers, which hold well in bouquets, also provide a yellow dye.