French Marigold, African Marigold, Aztec Marigold, Signet Marigold, Slender leaf Marigold, Striped Mexican Marigold
Blooming their heart out in summer and fall, Tagetes (Marigold) is a genus of annuals and perennials with showy single or double flowers in shades of orange, yellow, red, gold, white, and any combination of those colors. Their strongly aromatic fern-like foliage repels pests such as deer or rabbits, making them great companion plants to other plants.
Marigolds belong to the aster family (Asteraceae), genus Tagetes, which includes about 50 species. However, only three species of annual Marigolds are widely cultivated worldwide.
Tagetes erecta (African Marigold): This is the tallest and most upright species, towering up to 3-4 feet (90-120 cm). It boasts large, double, and pompon-like flowers, up to 5 in. across (12 cm), in shades of yellow, orange, and creamy white. Tagetes erecta is commonly known as the African Marigold, although it did not originate in Africa. It is called African Marigold because it was first imported to Europe through a trade route that passed through northwest Africa. These annual plants are native to Mexico and Central America. They are good for hot, dry garden conditions where other Marigold plants might struggle.
Tagetes patula( French Marigold): French Marigolds are compact and bushy annuals, typically 6-12 inches tall and wide (15-30 cm), with semi-double, double or crested flowers, up to 2 in. across (5 cm), in various combinations of reds, oranges, and yellows. Tagetes patula is commonly known as the French Marigold, but it did not originate in France. It is native to Mexico. It is adaptable to poor soils, heat, humidity, and especially drought. French Marigolds are reported to provide the greatest protection against a wide range of nematodes and are used in companion planting for many vegetable crops.
Tagetes tenuifolia (Signet Marigold): Signet Marigolds are compact annuals, reaching 12 in. in height and spread (30 cm), with a profusion of single, richly colored, small flowers, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), which generously cover the finely divided lacy foliage. Native to Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and Peru, their flowers are edible and have a pleasant lemon scent. They can be used in salads or teas.
Tagetes lemmonii (Mexican Marigold): Mexican Marigold is a sprawling evergreen shrub growing up to 4-6 ft. tall (120-180 cm) noted for its aromatic foliage and brightly colored flowers. In constant bloom during short-day seasons (fall, winter), with off blooms in other seasons, Mexican Marigold gets covered with bright golden daisy-like flowers adorned with darker yellow discs. The plant is very aromatic. A simple brush past the plant will release its strong fragrance. The musky fragrance discourages deer, yet bees and butterflies are attracted to the flowers. Mexican Marigold is native to southern Arizona and northern Mexico and performs best in hardiness zones 8-11.
Tagetes lucida (Mexican Tarragon): Mexican Tarragon is an upright perennial growing up to 30 in. tall (75 cm) with finely toothed, linear, deep green aromatic leaves. It grows all spring and summer and produces a lavish display of small, single, bright golden flowers from late summer to fall. Mexican tarragon is a great plant to attract butterflies, bees, and birds to the garden while repelling many insects. Easy to grow and drought tolerant, this plant is used both for its medicinal properties and as a cooking herb. The leaves add flavor to soups, egg, and meat dishes. The flowers make teas that treat the common cold, intestinal gas, and diarrhea. Mexican Tarragon is native to Mexico and Central America and performs best in hardiness zones 9-11.
Calendula officinalis (Pot Marigold, English Marigold): This native of southern Europe is not a true Marigold and should not be confused with the Mexican genus (Tagetes). Its brightly colored flowers are edible and possess wound-healing and local anti-inflammatory properties. Pot Marigold is more commonly grown in the flower garden than as a culinary herb.
| Hardiness |
2 - 11 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones |
1 - 12 |
| Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A1, A2, A3, H1, H2 |
| Plant Type | Annuals, Perennials |
| Genus | Tagetes |
| Exposure | Full Sun |
| Season of Interest |
Spring (Late) Summer (Early, Mid, Late) Fall |
| Height |
8" - 4' (20cm - 120cm) |
| Spread |
1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Showy |
| Tolerance | Drought, Deer, Rabbit, Clay Soil |
| Attracts | Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds |
| Landscaping Ideas | Patio And Containers, Edging, Beds And Borders |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage |
Marigolds are a popular choice for gardeners due to their numerous benefits and ease of cultivation. Here’s why you should consider growing them:
Easy to Grow: Marigolds are incredibly easy to grow, making them perfect for novice gardeners and those looking for low-maintenance plants. They germinate quickly and can be grown from seeds or transplants.
Vibrant and Long-Lasting Blooms: They bloom profusely from late spring until frost, offering continuous color in shades of yellow, orange, and red. Their cheerful flowers can brighten any garden space.
Attracts Beneficial Insects: Marigolds draw in pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are crucial for the health of your garden. They also attract beneficial insects that prey on garden pests, like hoverflies, ladybugs, and parasitic wasps, promoting a more balanced ecosystem.
Pest Repellent Qualities: These flowers are known for repelling garden pests like nematodes and even mosquitoes. Planting them around your vegetable garden can protect your other plants from harmful pests.
Natural Pest Repellent: Their scent deters deer, rabbits, and mosquitoes.
Diverse Uses in Landscaping: These versatile plants are excellent for borders, edging, container gardening, and mass plantings. They also work well as a filler in garden beds, providing color between other plants.
Low Water Requirements: Once established, marigolds are quite drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering. This makes them suitable for xeriscaping and gardens in dryer regions.
Low Maintenance: Require minimal care post-establishment but need deadheading for continuous blooming.
Edible Flowers: Some varieties produce edible flowers, adding a splash of color and a slightly spicy flavor to salads and other dishes.
Designing a garden with marigolds involves considering their vibrant colors, growth patterns, and compatibility with other plants. Here are some ideas for incorporating them into your garden design:
Vegetable Gardens: Marigolds serve as excellent companion plants. They suppress nematodes and attract beneficial pollinators, aiding the growth of vegetables like potatoes, tomatoes, basil, cucumbers, aubergines, squash, melons, asparagus, sweet corn, chilies, and peppers.
Borders and Edges: Their compact growth makes them ideal for outlining garden beds and pathways, adding structure and color to these areas.
Container Gardens: Marigolds are well-suited for containers, making them perfect for decorating patios, balconies, or terraces.
Mixed Flower Beds: Pair marigold flowers with various annuals and perennials for a dynamic display. Complementing them with flowers like Allium, Tickseed (coreopsis), Roses, Sage (Salvia), Bachelor Buttons (Centaurea), Lavender (Lavandula), and Geraniums not only enhances their beauty but also extends the season of interest in your landscape.
Near Outdoor Seating Areas: Planting marigolds in these areas can help repel mosquitoes while also elevating the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor living spaces.
Rock Gardens: Their drought tolerance makes them a suitable choice for dry, sunny rock gardens, where they can thrive with minimal care.
Window Boxes: Use marigolds to add a splash of color to window areas, an ideal choice for urban environments where garden space might be limited.
Cut Flower Gardens: Select varieties are excellent for cutting gardens, providing vibrant flowers that can be used in bouquets and floral arrangements.
Marigolds are an excellent choice for fresh bouquets and flower arrangements.
Marigolds have no serious pest or disease issues. However, some problems may occasionally occur:
Are Marigolds Perennials?
Most marigolds (Tagetes spp.) are annuals. They complete their life cycle in one growing season and must be replanted yearly. However, exceptions like Tagetes lucida and Tagetes lemmonii are perennial, particularly in warmer climates where they can survive year-round.
Are Marigolds Edible?
Yes, certain varieties of marigolds are edible. The flowers of Tagetes tenuifolia, commonly known as signet marigolds, are often used in culinary dishes for their citrusy flavor. Always ensure the marigolds aren’t treated with pesticides or chemicals if you plan to consume them.
Do Deer Eat Marigolds?
Generally, deer tend to avoid marigolds due to their strong scent. While not completely deer-proof, gardens often use marigolds to help deter deer.
How to Plant Marigold Seeds:
Plant marigold seeds directly in the garden after the last frost, or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil and provide ample sunlight. Keep the soil moist until germination, usually within 5-8 days.
Are Marigolds Poisonous to Dogs?
Marigolds are generally considered non-toxic to dogs. However, ingestion of large amounts might cause mild gastrointestinal upset. It’s always best to discourage pets from eating plants.
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| Hardiness |
2 - 11 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones |
1 - 12 |
| Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A1, A2, A3, H1, H2 |
| Plant Type | Annuals, Perennials |
| Genus | Tagetes |
| Exposure | Full Sun |
| Season of Interest |
Spring (Late) Summer (Early, Mid, Late) Fall |
| Height |
8" - 4' (20cm - 120cm) |
| Spread |
1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Showy |
| Tolerance | Drought, Deer, Rabbit, Clay Soil |
| Attracts | Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds |
| Landscaping Ideas | Patio And Containers, Edging, Beds And Borders |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage |
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Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!
