southern cone marigold
Scientific Name: Tagetes minuta
Flavour: Southern Cone marigold, also known as wild marigold or stinking roger, has a strong and pungent flavour with notes of citrus and spice. It offers a distinct and robust taste that adds a unique element to various dishes.
Growing Season: Southern Cone marigold is an annual herb that grows during the warmer months. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions.
Native Region: Southern Cone marigold is native to the southern region of South America, including parts of Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay.
Traditional Recipe: Southern Cone Marigold Infused Oil
Ingredients:
Fresh southern cone marigold flowers (about 1 cup)
Olive oil (enough to cover the flowers)
Glass jar with airtight lid
Instructions:
Gather fresh southern cone marigold flowers, ensuring they are clean and free of dirt or debris.
Place the flowers in a glass jar and pour enough olive oil to completely cover the flowers.
Seal the jar with an airtight lid and place it in a warm and sunny spot, such as a windowsill.
Let the jar sit for at least 2 weeks, allowing the oil to infuse with the flavour and aroma of the marigold flowers.
After the infusion period, strain the oil to remove the flower petals, using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
Transfer the infused oil to a clean bottle or container for storage.
Use the southern cone marigold infused oil as a flavourful addition to dressings, marinades, or drizzle it over cooked dishes for an aromatic touch.
Health Properties: Southern Cone marigold contains various compounds that contribute to its potential antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It has been traditionally used for its potential medicinal benefits, including as a digestive aid and to help alleviate symptoms of respiratory conditions. As with any wild edible plant, it is important to ensure proper identification and gather from clean and safe locations.
Growing Technique:
Location: Southern Cone marigold thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by loosening it and removing any weeds or debris. Southern Cone marigold can tolerate a variety of soil types but prefers well-drained soil.
Planting: Sow southern cone marigold seeds directly in the garden after the last frost date. Scatter the seeds and lightly cover them with soil, as they require light for germination. Space the seeds or seedlings about 6 to 12 inches apart.
Watering: Water the young plants regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once established, southern cone marigold is drought-tolerant and requires less frequent watering.
Maintenance: Southern Cone marigold is generally low-maintenance. Remove any weeds that compete with the plants and apply a layer of organic mulch to help retain soil moisture and suppress weed growth.
Pests and Diseases: Southern Cone marigold is known for its natural pest-repellent properties and is often used as a companion plant to deter certain insects. However, watch out for common pests such as aphids or spider mites. If necessary, use organic pest control methods or appropriate treatments.
Harvesting: Harvest the southern cone marigold flowers when they are fully open and vibrant in colour. Cut the flowers just above a set of leaves, allowing the plant to continue producing more flowers.
Storage: Use the fresh flowers immediately or dry them for future use. To dry the flowers, hang them upside down in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight until they are fully dry. Store the dried flowers in an airtight container in a cool and dark place.