Which of the following is not a characteristic of Marigolds?

Marigolds are widely recognized for their vibrant blooms and are often cultivated for their ornamental appeal in gardens. One of their notable characteristics is their upright growth habit, which allows them to be effective in borders or as standalone plants. They come in a wide variety of colors, including yellow, orange, and red, which adds to their popularity among gardeners seeking colorful displays. Additionally, marigolds are known for their long blooming season, typically flowering from late spring until the first frost, making them an enduring choice for seasonal displays.

While marigolds do have a fragrance, it is not universally described as strong. In fact, the scent can vary based on the specific variety and growing conditions, with some being more pungent than others. Thus, the characteristic that does not consistently apply to marigolds is the strong fragrance, making it the distinguishing feature among the given options.