Noted for its large blossoms, Tagetes erecta (African Marigold) is a bushy annual boasting huge double flowers, up to 2-4 in. across (5-10 cm) in shades of yellow, orange and white. Blooming from early summer until frost, the showy blossoms are borne atop the foliage of pinnate leaves divided into lanceolate leaflets. Both flowers and foliage are aromatic when crushed or brushed. Easy to grow and low maintenance, African marigolds are excellent for beds, containers, or as edging plants.

• Vigorously grows up to 1-4 ft. tall (30-120 cm) and 1-2 ft. wide (30-60 cm)
• Performs best in full sun, in average, evenly moist, well-drained soils. Light shade is tolerated in hot summer areas. Drought tolerant once established. Site tall varieties in locations sheltered from strong winds.
• African Marigolds are excellent additions to the landscape as bedding or edging plants or in containers on the deck or patio.
• Generally pest and disease free. Keep an eye out for powdery mildew, leaf spot, spider mites and thrips. Deer resistant.
• May be grown from seeds or live plants. Sow seeds outdoors after all danger of frost has passed or indoors 6-8 weeks prior to the last spring frost date.
• Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering.
• Native to Mexico, Central America.