Marigold Tagetes erecta Gold Coins Series
ABOUT
The Gold Coins Series of the Marigold is a stunning display of vibrant, large double flowers that showcase a rich, golden yellow color. The blossoms are quite showy and dense, with the layers of petals creating a plush, almost carnation-like effect that is visually striking within any garden setting. The foliage of the Marigold in the Gold Coins Series is a deep green, providing a lush backdrop that further accentuates the brilliance of the flowers. The leaves are typically fern-like in appearance, with a fine texture that contrasts nicely with the boldness of the blooms. The growth habit of the Marigold Gold Coins Series is generally upright and robust, ensuring the blooms stand out proudly. These plants are well-branched, which helps to support the weight of the flowers and contributes to the fullness of the plant's overall appearance. As a part of a series known for producing large flowers, the Marigold Gold Coins Series is particularly notable for its sizable and plentiful blooms, which make it a favorite for gardeners looking to add a splash of sunny color to their landscape. The combination of the plant's vibrant color, sizeable flower heads, and lush foliage makes it a standout choice for borders, beds, and as an eye-catching feature in floral arrangements.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
African Marigold, Mexican Marigold, American Marigold, Aztec Marigold.
Common names
Tagetes erecta.
ToxicityTo humans
Marigold is considered to be non-toxic to humans and is sometimes used in culinary applications in its dried form, particularly in some cultural cuisines. However, ingestion of large quantities of marigold plants can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, as with many plants that are not commonly consumed. People with sensitivity to Asteraceae/Compositae family plants should be cautious, as they may experience an allergic reaction.
To pets
Marigold is generally not considered to be poisonous to pets. However, if a pet consumes a large amount of the plant, it could experience mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, primarily due to the irritation of the stomach and intestines from the unusual material. If your pet is showing symptoms after ingestion, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
1-2 feet [30-60 cm]
Spread
1 feet [30 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2-11
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Marigold 'Gold Coins Series' produces vibrant yellow and orange flowers that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Pest Deterrent: The plant has a reputation for repelling certain pests, making it beneficial for planting near vegetables and other flowers.
- Easy to Grow: Marigolds are known for their ease of cultivation, even for novice gardeners, and can be grown in a variety of soil types.
- Drought Tolerance: These plants are relatively drought-resistant once established, requiring less water compared to other garden plants.
- Continuous Blooming: Marigolds in the Gold Coins Series bloom profusely throughout the growing season, providing long-lasting color in the garden.
- Companion Planting: They can be used effectively for companion planting due to their pest deterrent properties to protect and enhance the growth of other plants.
- Attracting Beneficial Insects: The bright flowers attract pollinators such as bees, as well as beneficial insects that help control pest populations.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Companion Planting: The Marigold (Tagetes erecta) is frequently planted among vegetables to deter pests and nematodes due to its strong scent.
- Chicken Feed Colorant: The flowers can be used in chicken feed to deepen the yellow color of egg yolks.
- Dye Production: Marigold petals contain lutein, which can be extracted to produce a natural yellow dye for fabrics or food coloring.
- Decoration in Festivals: In some cultures, such as the Mexican Day of the Dead, marigold flowers are used to decorate altars and graves.
- Cut Flower Industry: Marigolds are popular in the floristry trade for their vibrant colors and long-lasting cut flowers.
- Garden Aesthetics: Often used in public and home gardens for ornamental purposes due to their bright and cheerful flowers.
- Ritual Uses: In certain traditions, marigold petals are used during rituals and ceremonies as offerings or decorations.
- Biological Insecticide: Sometimes grown in large quantities to be processed into a natural insect repellent for organic farming.
- Cosmetic Additives: Marigold extracts are sometimes found in lotions and creams for their fragrance and skin-beneficial properties.
- Potpourri Ingredient: Dried marigold flowers are used in potpourri mixes for their scent and color retention.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe African marigold is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe African marigold is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Life and Vitality: The vibrant yellow and orange hues of the Marigold, often associated with the sun, symbolize radiant life and energy.
- Healing: Marigolds are believed to possess healing properties, signifying the restoration of physical and emotional well-being.
- Grief and Despair: In some cultures, Marigolds represent remembrance and are used in ceremonies to honor those who have passed away, symbolizing the beauty and pain of memories.
- Beauty and Warmth: The pleasing aesthetics of the Marigold stand for beauty and the warmth of a welcoming home or personality.
- Protection: Historically, Marigolds were thought to protect against negativity and were planted to ward off pests, symbolizing safety and defense.
- Resilience: As Marigolds are hardy and robust, they often represent the ability to withstand challenging conditions, symbolizing strength and endurance.
- Love and Devotion: In some traditions, Marigolds are used in wedding ceremonies and festivals to signify passion and dedicated love.
WaterThe African Marigold (Tagetes erecta Gold Coins Series) requires regular watering to maintain moist soil, especially during the growing season. Generally, watering should occur once or twice a week, but this can vary depending on climate conditions. It is important to water deeply, providing about one to two gallons every week, ensuring the moisture reaches the roots. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. In extreme heat, check the soil moisture levels more frequently, as the plant may need extra water to cope with the conditions.
LightThe African Marigold thrives best in full sunlight which means it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for this plant is in an open area where it can enjoy unfiltered sunlight throughout the day. Partial shade can be tolerated, but too much shade can impact the blooming and overall vigor of the plant.
TemperatureAfrican Marigolds prefer warm conditions and will grow best when daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F. They can handle temperatures as low as 50°F at night, but frost or prolonged exposure to temperatures below this range can be detrimental. To ensure robust growth, keep the plant in an area that avoids cold drafts and sudden temperature drops below the minimum threshold.
PruningTo encourage bushier growth and more blooms in the African Marigold, regular pruning and deadheading are advised. Remove any faded or dead flowers to promote new growth and cut back any leggy stems. Pruning is best done in the early morning or late evening, and generally, a light pruning every few weeks is sufficient. The best time for a more severe pruning, to rejuvenate the plant, is in the early spring before the onset of the growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAfrican Marigold thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand in equal parts creates an ideal environment for growth.
RepottingAfrican Marigold, being an annual, typically does not require repotting. It is planted every year and discarded after the first frost.
Humidity & MistingAfrican Marigold prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate the drier conditions commonly found in outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light and ensure good air circulation for indoor African Marigolds.
Outdoor
Choose sunny spot, plant in well-draining soil, and space adequately.
Hardiness zone
African Marigold is suitable for 2-11 USDA hardiness zones.
Life cycleThe life cycle of the African Marigold from the 'Gold Coins Series' begins with seed germination, which takes place in warm, moist soil within a few days to a couple of weeks. The seedlings exhibit rapid growth, developing true leaves and branching out after the initial pair of seed leaves (cotyledons). As they mature, these plants enter the vegetative stage, growing vigorously and forming a bushy structure. The flowering stage follows, where the plants produce large, double flowers in vibrant yellows, oranges, and golds throughout the summer until the first frost. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruits (technically achenes), which contain the seeds for the next generation. With the onset of cooler temperatures and less favorable conditions, the plants complete their life cycle and die, leaving the seeds to overwinter and restart the process when conditions become favorable again.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Tagetes erecta, commonly known as the African marigold, is often grown from seeds, with the most popular method of propagation being seeding. The ideal time to sow African marigold seeds is in the spring after the danger of frost has passed. Seeds should be sown shallowly, at a depth of about an eighth of an inch (approximately 3 millimeters), and spaced appropriately to allow for adequate airflow and growth as the plants mature. Typically, it takes 4 to 14 days for marigold seeds to germinate at 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 24 degrees Celsius). Once the seedlings have developed true leaves, they can be thinned or transplanted to provide each plant enough space to grow, generally about 8 to 18 inches apart. This direct sowing method into the garden or starting seeds indoors in trays or pots are the most efficient ways to propagate African marigolds, allowing for masses of vibrant blooms throughout the growing season.
