Calendula officinalis (Marigold)

Marigold harvest Two workers, one male and one female pick the orange flower heads from a row of plants in herbal nursery in Somerset. Used to colour foods such as butter, syrups, confectionary and rice. Sometimes substituted for saffron. Crushed stems applied to corns and warts are said to make them more easily removable. Sensitive to temperature and dampness (opens in fine weather and during the day), and used as a weather indicator. Its essential oil used in perfumes which have a sharp tang.