African marigold [Inca I Orange] Tagetes erecta Inca I Orange (Inca I Series)
![African marigold [Inca I Orange]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b558fa40af.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
[Inca I Orange] is an African marigold to 30cm, with large, fully double, bright orange flowers from early summer to early autumn
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
African Marigold, American Marigold, Mexican Marigold, Aztec Marigold
Common names
Tagetes erecta.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2-11
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Tagetes erecta, commonly known as African marigold, adds vibrant orange color to gardens and landscapes.
- Pest Deterrent: The plant is known to deter various insects and nematodes, thus serving as a natural pest control in gardens.
- Ease of Care: African marigolds are low maintenance plants that are easy to grow, making them suitable for novice gardeners.
- Attracts Pollinators: They attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which are important for pollination.
- Companion Planting: Often used in companion planting to benefit vegetables and other garden plants by deterring pests.
- Seasonal Versatility: They're suitable for planting in a variety of seasons, though they particularly thrive in summer.
- Landscape Filling: With their bushy growth habit, they can fill empty spaces in the landscape effectively.
- Extended Blooming: African marigolds have a long blooming season, providing consistent color from late spring to fall.
- Edging Plant: They can be used as an edging plant along borders or pathways due to their uniform growth and colorful appearance.
- Pot and Container Gardening: They adapt well to container gardening, allowing for vibrant displays on patios or balconies.
- Cut Flowers: The flowers of African marigold can be used in floral arrangements, as they have a long vase life.
- Educational Use: Commonly used in educational settings to teach about plant growth, life cycles, and gardening basics.
- Cultural Significance: They hold cultural significance in various countries and are used in festivals and religious events.
Medical Properties- Antimicrobial: Tagetes erecta has been found to contain compounds that exhibit antimicrobial activity.
- Anti-inflammatory: Some studies suggest the presence of anti-inflammatory properties in Tagetes erecta.
- Antioxidant: The plant may contain antioxidants which help in protecting the body from oxidative stress.
- Analgesic: There is some evidence to suggest Tagetes erecta may have pain-relieving effects.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Tagetes erecta, commonly known as Marigold, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of colors from yellow to orange depending on the mordant used.
- In companion planting, Marigolds are placed in gardens to attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on pests.
- Marigold petals are used in poultry feed to enhance the color of egg yolks and chicken skin, making them more appealing to consumers.
- The plant is utilized in religious and cultural festivals in various parts of the world, especially in India during Diwali, where it is often used in garlands and decoration.
- Marigolds can be used in compost heaps as they contribute to the decomposition process and enrich the compost with nutrients.
- The scent of Marigold is believed to deter pests like rabbits and deer, making it a natural protective barrier for vegetable gardens.
- The flowers are used in the creation of natural perfumes and essential oils due to their distinct and strong fragrance.
- They serve as a natural colorant for food products, such as margarine and baked goods.
- As an environmental bioindicator, Marigolds can absorb heavy metals from the soil, making them useful in phytoremediation efforts.
- Marigold blossoms are incorporated into art and craft projects, including handmade paper and natural potpourris.
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 orange color of the Marigold is often associated with the sun and its life-giving energy, symbolizing a vibrant spirit and vital force.
- Positive Energy: The bright blossoms are believed to radiate positive energy and can be used to uplift moods and bring cheer.
- Honor and Respect: Marigolds are traditionally used in Day of the Dead celebrations to honor the memories of loved ones, symbolizing respect and the eternal nature of love.
- Healing: In some cultures, the Marigold is associated with healing properties and is used in various remedies, symbolizing physical and emotional healing.
- Protection: The strong scent and vibrant color of the Marigold is thought to ward off pests and negative energies, symbolizing protection and safety.
- Beauty and Warmth: The lush, full blooms of the Marigold represent beauty and a warm heart, often used to convey affection and warm feelings.
- Grief and Despair: Despite its bright appearance, Marigolds can also represent the pain of loss, as their use in funerary rites suggests a connection to grief and mourning.
- Optimism and Success: With its sunny disposition, Marigolds are also a symbol of optimism and the pursuit of success, reflecting a hopeful outlook and the desire for achievement.
WaterAfrican Marigolds should be watered regularly, but it is crucial to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. Depending on the climate, this might mean watering deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water. In hot, dry conditions, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler, damp climates, less often. Ensure the water is directed at the soil level rather than overhead to minimize wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease. Adjust the watering schedule based on rainfall and check the soil moisture before watering to avoid overwatering.
LightAfrican Marigolds thrive in full sun, which means they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for these plants is in a location where they can receive unfiltered sunlight throughout the day. Although they can tolerate some light shade, too much shade can lead to leggy growth and fewer blooms, so a sunny spot is ideal for the healthiest plants and best flowering.
TemperatureAfrican Marigolds prefer warm conditions and are best suited to temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. They can tolerate higher temperatures but may need extra water to prevent stress. At a minimum, they should not be planted outdoors until the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures are consistently above 50°F. The maximum temperature for the African Marigold is around 100°F, beyond which the plant may exhibit signs of heat stress.
PruningPruning African Marigolds involves the process of deadheading, which is the removal of spent flowers to encourage further blooming. Deadheading can be done every few days or as needed when flowers fade. The best time for pruning is in the morning when the plants are well-hydrated. During the growing season, periodic pinching back of the tips can promote bushier growth and more flowers.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAfrican Marigolds thrive in a well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A good soil mix can include equal parts garden soil, compost, and peat moss or perlite to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingAfrican Marigolds generally do not require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same container for a growing season. They may only need repotting if they have outgrown their current pot or the soil has become depleted.
Humidity & MistingAfrican Marigolds are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but prefer moderate conditions. They do well in typical outdoor humidity without the need for special adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and water regularly.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, space 8-10 inches apart.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleTagetes erecta, commonly known as African Marigold, begins its life as a seed, which, when sown in fertile, well-draining soil and given adequate warmth and light, will germinate in a few days to two weeks. The seedlings develop true leaves and, as they grow, can be transplanted outdoors after the last frost, into a sunny spot with rich soil. During the vegetative stage, the plant grows rapidly, producing a bushy structure with dark green foliage. As it reaches maturity, flower buds form, which bloom into large, showy orange flowers characteristic of the Inca I Orange variety. The blooming stage continues throughout the summer until fall, attracting pollinators and sometimes requiring deadheading to promote further blooming. After flowering, the plant produces seeds that can be harvested before the first frost, completing its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method to propagate the Tagetes erecta, commonly known as the African Marigold or Inca Marigold, is through seeds. The best time for sowing seeds is in early spring when the risk of frost has passed. To achieve this, prepare a seedbed or use a starter tray with well-draining soil, ensuring it is moist before planting the seeds. Sow the seeds by lightly pressing them into the soil and covering them with a fine layer of soil, not more than a quarter inch deep. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and maintain a temperature around 70-75°F (21-24°C). The seeds typically germinate within 5 to 7 days. Once the seedlings have grown and have at least a couple of true leaves, they can be transplanted to their final growing location, ensuring they are spaced about 8 to 12 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
