These vibrant flowers in the shape of miniature pumpkins come in fiery colours of red, orange, yellow and golden. Of the family group Asteraceae, the actual genus name is Tagetes. Flowers of the New World, valued by the Aztecs for their appearance and culinary usefulness. Edible and with plenty of herbal qualities. Distributed throughout the world, some hybrids made in Europe. There's a native marigold in Europe such as the pot marigold and French marigold. However a certain type of Marigold flower is toxic, although these flowers can give an allergic reaction to humans. Marigolds are not safe for dogs to consume. Marigolds are not related to "marsh marigold leaves" (an entirely different species) which are very toxic to humans and animals.
Another October birth month flower is the cosmos plant, appearing in late Summer, early Autumn and looking like golden jewel star blooms. They belong to the Sunflower family. Both marigolds and cosmos flowers are native to the Americas, and have accidentally grown here and there. Introduced into South Africa it's golden Autumn petals show in the countryside. You can also find cosmos flowers of white, yellow and orange. In various reds including light pink, burgundy and crimson. Cosmos flowers are edible and safe, for salads and medicine.
Storm Valkyrie
