Marigold is commonly known in India as Genda Phool, Banti Poo, etc. The striking aspect of this lovely flower is the burst of color radiating for the clustered petals. Even one flower is enough to add striking color to any floral arrangement. It may not smell as great as other flowers but helps keep many insects and pests at bay from your arrangments and thats one of the reasons these flowers are used in abundance on the traditional doorways and house entrances.

It is one of the hardiest flowering plants that needs minimal care. Compared to other flowering species, these can survive in tough climatic, soil and water conditions and need minimum tending. These features make marigold a common occurance in many Indian gardens, homes and road sides.

Marigold is very easy to propogate. Each petal is actually a flower by itself and dries up to become a seed. All you have to do it to let the flower dry on the plant. Once completely dry, collect the dried flower bits and store them for future use. More often then not, you find many marigold flowers around the mother plant as many seeds drop off.

Marigolds are widely used in India for many cultural, traditional and religious festivities. You cannot miss this striking flower midst celebration. From weddings, poojas, housewarming, to many other ceremoines, Marigold brings in the sunny cheer and festive atmosphere to otherwise drab areas. These flowers now find themselves pitted against Oriental Lilies and Carnations in many floral decorations.

For this simple table centerpiece arrangment, you need a handful of marigold blooms, candles, florist foam and green leaves.