Tagetes patula ‘Tiger Eyes’ (French Marigold)

A popular variety of marigold, Tagetes patula ‘Tiger Eyes’ (French Marigold) is a compact, bushy annual boasting anemone-centered, double flowers, up to 2 in. across (5 cm), with mahogany-red outer petals surrounding a dome of deep golden-yellow petals. Blooming from spring until frost, the showy blossoms generously cover the finely divided aromatic foliage. The flowers and foliage have a spicy fragrance and have been used to deter insects in the garden. Easy to grow and low maintenance, French marigolds are excellent for beds, patio containers, or as edging plants.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Vigorously grows up to 10-12 in. tall (25-30 cm) and 6-8 in. wide (15-20 cm).
• Performs best in full sun in moderately fertile, dry to moist, well-drained soils. Some light afternoon shade is tolerated in hot summer areas. Drought tolerant once established.
• French Marigolds are excellent additions to the landscape as bedding or edging plants at the front of the border or in containers on the deck or patio.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for powdery mildew, gray mold or botrytis, leaf spot, root rot, spider mites, and thrips. Deer tend to avoid this plant.
• Pinching off dead blossoms will promote continuous blooming. Blooming might decrease in the heat of summer but will resume once temperatures cool down.
• Propagate by seed sown at 70°F (21°C) in spring. Sow seeds outdoors after all danger of frost has passed or indoors 6-8 weeks prior to the last spring frost date.
• Foliage may aggravate skin allergies. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
• Tagetes patula is native to Mexico and Guatemala.