The botanical name for Marigold is Tagetes, the name of an Etruscan God. Marigolds are very popular throughout the world. In Asia, Marigolds are used for many different types of religious worship including Hindu, Buddhist, and other religious ceremonies. There are 56 species in the Tagetes genus including both perennial and annual types. Most types originated in hot, arid climates and on slopes and valley areas from New Mexico to Argentina. Several species can be also found in Africa.

In Asia, Marigolds have been planted in all regions for many years. In India, the name “Marigold” is called “Genda” or written as “गेंदा”.

Marigolds were originally planted in the North and North East of Thailand at educational institutions. Marigold cultivation was extended to cover the whole of Thailand so that commercial cut flowers could be produced. There are also varieties that are cultivated to produce an orange pigment called “Lutien” that is mixed with chicken feed to improve coloration of egg yolks. Lutien is also added to vitamin supplements to reduce retinal degeneration in people over the age of 45.