Mexican Marigold Tagetes erecta 'Big Top Yellow' (Big Top Series)

Names

• Family

  Asteraceae

• Synonyms

  African Marigold, Aztec Marigold, American Marigold, Mexican Marigold, Big Top Yellow

• Common names

  Tagetes erecta.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The African marigold is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions, skin irritation, or sensitivity, particularly if they have a known allergy to other members of the Asteraceae family. Ingesting large amounts of the plant might cause mild stomach upset, but significant poisoning from eating African marigold is unlikely.

• To pets

  African marigold is not known to be highly toxic to pets. While it might cause mild digestive upset if ingested in large quantities, due to its pungent taste and fragrance, pets are not usually inclined to eat large amounts of this plant. Therefore, serious toxicity or severe consequences from consuming African marigold are not commonly reported for pets.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Annuals

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Yellow

• Height

  2 feet (60 cm)

• Spread

  1 foot (30 cm)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  2-11

• Native area

  Mexico

General Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: Adds a bright, sunny yellow hue to gardens and landscapes, making it a visually attractive choice for gardeners and landscapers.
• Easy to Grow: Adaptable to various soil types and conditions, which makes it a low-maintenance option for both novice and experienced gardeners.
• Drought Tolerant: Once established, it requires minimal watering, thus conserving water and reducing the need for frequent maintenance.
• Pest Repellent: Naturally repels some nematodes and pests due to its chemical compounds, providing a degree of protection to itself and neighboring plants.
• Continuous Blooming: Flowers continuously from early summer to the first frosts, providing long-lasting color and interest in garden settings.
• Edging and Borders: Suits well for creating defined edges in gardens and landscape designs due to its upright growth habit.
• Attracts Pollinators: Attracts beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which are important for pollination of many other plants.
• Companion Planting: Can be used in companion planting to benefit nearby plants and create a more diverse and healthy garden ecosystem.

Medical Properties

• Anti-inflammatory: Some studies have indicated that Tagetes erecta may have anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of flavonoids.
• Antimicrobial: Components such as terpenoids found in Tagetes erecta have shown some antimicrobial activity in research.
• Antioxidant: The plant contains antioxidants, which help to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body.
• Ophthalmic use: Lutein, a compound found in Tagetes erecta, is known to support eye health and may be beneficial in preventing age-related macular degeneration.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Marigold petals can be used to add a yellow color to chicken feed, which in turn can deepen the yellow of egg yolks.
• The flowers serve as a natural dye for fabrics, providing hues ranging from yellow to orange depending on the mordant used.
• Marigolds are planted in vegetable gardens as they are believed to repel certain pests like nematodes and tomato hornworms.
• The strong scent of marigolds is used in perfumery, often as a component in fragrances that have an herbaceous or citrus profile.
• Marigold petals are sometimes included in salad mixes for an edible splash of color, though their taste can be quite bitter.
• Flower heads of marigolds may be used in compost piles as they can contribute to the overall balance of nutrients within the compost.
• As a symbol of celebration, marigolds are commonly used in religious and cultural festivals, such as Day of the Dead decorations in Mexico.
• The plant is used in companion planting to improve the growth of some vegetables like tomatoes, by deterring harmful insects.
• Steeping marigold petals in oil can produce an aromatic and colorful oil used in cooking or as a salad dressing base.
• Marigold petals are used in poultry rations not only for the yolk color but sometimes as a flavor enhancer.

Feng Shui

The African marigold is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The African marigold is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Life and Vitality: Known commonly as the African Marigold, Tagetes erecta 'Big Top Yellow' exudes a vibrant yellow hue that symbolizes the energy and warmth of life. Its robust nature and large blooms are reflective of a strong lifeforce and vitality.
• Sun and Light: The bright color and sun-like appearance of the African Marigold's flowers represent the sun, light, and the power of positivity to brighten one's day.
• Remembrance: Marigolds are often used in cultures such as in Mexico during Day of the Dead celebrations to honor and remember the deceased, suggesting that the African Marigold symbolizes remembrance and the memory of loved ones.
• Overcoming Challenges: Because African Marigolds are sturdy and can thrive in challenging conditions, they are sometimes used to symbolize the overcoming of obstacles and resilience.
• Beauty and Warmth: The lush, warm colors of African Marigolds are associated with beauty and a welcoming presence, often used in gardens to create an inviting atmosphere.
• Protection: In some cultures, marigolds are believed to have protective qualities, warding off pests and negative energies.