The French Marigold is a sturdy stalwart of British gardens, bright, breezy and very cheerful. Some would say they’re ordinary. Even a bit common. 

But take some close-up photographs of a very healthy display (in my mother’s Essex garden) and you may change your view of these little flowers. 

Their structure is intricate and complex with some rich variegations in colour, with splashes of crimson and yellow. A marigold in bloom is reminiscent of a crumbly chocolate bar’s delicate swirls.

Bold and ubiquitous they may be, but this flower remains a natural wonder.

Click first image for the full gallery experience