Corn Marigold
Chrysanthemum segetum
Family: Asteraceae or Compositae
What it is like
Chrysanthemum segetum is a ANNUAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.5
Where it is found
A weed of lime-free arable land in Britain.
Europe - E. Mediterranean. Probably introduced in Britain.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Young shoots - cooked. Strongly aromatic, they contain coumarin. Caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
Dye: Plants that provide dyes.
How it is grown
Succeeds in ordinary garden soil, though it prefers a well-drained fertile soil in full sun. Grows well in sandy soils. Dislikes lime. Cultivated as a vegetable in China and Japan. There are several named varieties selected for their ornamental value.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in situ. The seed usually germinates within 10 - 18 days at 15°c. Autumn sowings succeed in mild areas.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
One report suggests that the plant contains coumarin. If this is true it would be unwise to eat the leaves, especially if they are dried, since coumarin can prevent the blood from co-aggulating when there is a cut.