You can harvest the seeds after the petals drop, cure them, then eat them raw or oven-roasted. Blossoms have a mild wintergreen flavor and can be used in salads, to decorate cakes, or served with soft cheese. This plant will do well in sun or shade and grows to a height of six to eight inches. Blossoms taste like watercress with a slightly sweet flavor. You have several edible varieties to choose from, most of which grow best in full sun or light shade.
Blossoms have a citrus taste and can be used to perk up vegetables, pasta, and salads.
Marigolds are easy to grow and like full sun. The blossoms make attractive plate garnishes and are often used in Chinese-style dishes. The leaves can be used for a naturally sweet tea or sugar to make candies. Both flowers and leaves have a delicate anise or licorice flavor. Some people say the flavor reminds them of root beer.