1. Are all marigolds edible?

2. Is there a site that shows the different varieties, so I can tell which I have?

Now, I've reviewed many sites, and I'm as confused as when I started! LOL.

There were sites that said that pot marigolds and calendula were edible. Then, another site said, "The edible varieties are not related to the plant called pot marigold or calendula."

There were sites that said all marigolds were edible, but only some were good for cullinary usage. Those sited as good were: tagetes signata/pumila/tenufolia.

Alas, I read about the history of marigolds, and found that there are three central varieties: French, African and triploid marigolds.

Help, please? :)

The French Marigold, Tagetes patula, is not edible. It is used in companion planting for insect and nematode control.

Of the Gem Marigolds, only Tagetes tenuifolia is edible, although some claim that T. signata and T. pumila are also edible. Since there seems to be some disagreement about this, I'd suggest caution. I've seen quite a few reference where T. signata is 'harmful if eaten in large quantities'. I've seen one or two references to the African Marigold (T. erecta) being edible.

Mexican Marigold Mint, also known by many other names including Winter Tarragon, Root Beer plant, Yerba anis or Cloud Plant (Tagetes lucida)is edible.

Some people claim that all marigolds are edible, but that some of them taste VILE! I daresay you should be guided by your nose and taste-buds with marigolds. If it smells and tastes like an insect repellent, then that is probably the best use for it!

Me - I stick with reliable Calendula and no other except for Tagetes lucida which I use as a substitute for French Tarragon. And I don't believe everything I read on the internet or in books. I prefer to play safe. When in doubt - don't.