This flower has a special meaning to Judy, the co-founder of Botanical Interests. As a child, she would go with her mom to John’s Garden Center in San Jose, CA each spring to purchase very tall, bright yellow marigolds to encircle the patio, as her mother loved those big, bright, yellow blossoms. It was a very special flower of Judy’s youth, so she named this variety after her mother. In her words, “For me, the Phyllis marigold will remind me of trips to the garden center, spring planting with mom, and her wonderful summer patio parties.”

Phyllis is also known as ‘Mum Yellow’ for its chrysanthemum-like 3″ flower made up of hundreds of thin, bright yellow petals. Long stems are great for cut-flower bouquets and arrangements. African Marigold petals are edible with a slightly bitter, citrusy/spice flavor. They make a pretty garnish on rice, salads, or desserts. Fairly drought tolerant.