Marigold Tagetes erecta
ABOUT
The plant known as the African Marigold features a robust and bushy appearance with dark green foliage. The leaves are typically pinnate with multiple leaflets on each leaf, exuding a distinctive fragrance that can be strong and sometimes pungent. The most striking aspect of the African Marigold is its flowers, which bloom in an array of bold colors such as yellow, orange, and white. These blooms are large and showy, often with multiple layers of petals forming a dense, almost pom-pom-like structure atop the stems. The center of the flower is usually a different hue, adding to the visual appeal with a contrasting eye. As an ornamental plant, it stands out in gardens due to its vibrant display and is commonly used in borders, flower beds, and as a companion plant in vegetable gardens to deter pests with its scent.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
African Marigold, Aztec Marigold, Big Marigold, Mexican Marigold, American Marigold.
Common names
Tagetes patula var. erecta, Tagetes remotiflora, Tagetes tenuifolia, Tagetes lucida.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known commonly as marigold (Tagetes erecta) is not typically considered toxic to humans. However, consuming large quantities of marigold leaves or flowers can potentially lead to nausea, vomiting, or irritation of the mouth and throat due to its pungent taste and potentially irritating compounds. Generally, marigolds are not associated with serious symptoms of poisoning when touched or ingested in small amounts.
To pets
Marigold (Tagetes erecta) is considered to be non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If a pet ingests marigolds, they may experience mild gastrointestinal upset including vomiting or diarrhea due to the ingestion of a non-typical food item, but severe toxicity is not expected. It's always wise to monitor your pets if they consume any plant material to ensure they do not have an unexpected reaction.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.30-0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2-11
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal - Tagetes erecta, commonly known as Marigold, is widely used for ornamental purposes due to its vibrant orange, yellow, and cream flowers that add beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Companion Planting - Marigolds are recognized for their ability to repel certain pests and thus are commonly planted in vegetable gardens to protect other plants without the need for chemical insecticides.
- Cultural Significance - In various cultures, Marigolds are used in religious and ceremonial events, such as Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico and festive decorations in India.
- Natural Dye - The flowers of the Marigold can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics and food coloring, offering a non-toxic alternative to synthetic dyes.
- Wildlife Attraction - Marigolds can attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies to the garden, which assist in pollination and enhance biodiversity.
- Soil Improvement - The plant is known to help improve soil quality by repelling nematodes, which are soil-dwelling pests that can damage the roots of various crops.
Medical Properties- Antispasmodic: Tagetes erecta has been traditionally used to help relieve muscle spasms.
- Antimicrobial: It shows antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria and fungi.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant contains compounds that may reduce inflammation.
- Diuretic: Known to promote urine production and relieve fluid retention.
- Carminative: May help in reducing gas in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Sedative: Can have calming effects and be used to aid sleep or reduce anxiety.
- Antiseptic: It can be applied to cuts and wounds for its germ-killing properties.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: Tagetes erecta petals contain lutein, a yellow pigment that can be used in the food industry to color cheese, butter, and other food items.
- In poultry feed: The flowers are added to poultry feed to deepen the color of egg yolks and chicken skin naturally.
- As a ritual offering: In some cultures, particularly in Mexico, the flowers are used as offerings on altars during Day of the Dead celebrations.
- In companion planting: Gardeners plant Tagetes erecta among vegetables to repel harmful insects and nematodes due to its strong scent.
- For ceremonial garlands: In India, flowers are strung into garlands used in weddings and religious events.
- In perfume industry: Extracts of Tagetes erecta are sometimes used as ingredients in perfumes due to their unique fragrance.
- As a colorant in textiles: The petals can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics, giving them a vibrant yellow to orange color.
- For floral displays: The distinctive and large flowers of Tagetes erecta make it a popular choice for ornamental use in gardening and floral arrangements.
- In the cosmetic industry: The extracts might be used for their fragrance and as a component in some lotions and creams.
- For festive decorations: Due to their bright colors and ease of growing, Tagetes erecta flowers are often used in decorations for festivals and celebrations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Marigold is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Marigold is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Life and Vitality: As a plant that thrives in full sunlight, the marigold is often associated with vibrant energy and the power that sustains life.
- Remembrance: In some cultures, marigolds are used during Day of the Dead celebrations to honor and remember those who have passed away, symbolizing the beauty of the life cycle.
- Sun and Light: The bright yellow and golden hues of the marigold are reminiscent of the sun, symbolizing warmth, light, and positivity.
- Passion and Creativity: The vivid colors of the marigold can also represent strong emotions such as passion, suggesting a symbol for artistic creation and inspiration.
- Healing: Marigolds have been used medicinally in various cultures, symbolizing their capacity to promote physical and emotional healing.
- Protection: Some believe marigolds possess protective qualities and incorporate them in rituals or plant them in gardens to guard against negativity and pests.
- Religious Significance: In certain religions, marigolds are seen as sacred flowers and are used in religious ceremonies or placed on altars, symbolizing devotion and spiritual worship.
- Resilience and Overcoming Challenges: As a hardy plant that can grow in challenging conditions, marigolds symbolize the ability to persevere and overcome adversity.
WaterThe African marigold should be watered regularly, ensuring that the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, which typically means watering once every week with about half a gallon, depending on climate conditions. Be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. It's best to water early in the morning to allow foliage to dry out over the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
LightAfrican marigolds require full sunlight to flourish. They should be placed in a location where they will receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. If grown indoors, a sunny window sill that gets ample daylight is ideal. These plants thrive in bright and sunny conditions, and lack of sufficient light may cause them to become leggy and produce fewer blooms.
TemperatureAfrican marigolds prefer warmer temperatures and thrive in an environment that maintains a temperature between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. These plants can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit but will suffer if exposed to frost or temperatures below this threshold. The maximum temperature they can withstand is approximately 95 degrees Fahrenheit, beyond which the plants may experience stress.
PruningPruning African marigolds encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch off the tops of the plants when they are young to promote branching and remove spent flowers (deadheading) regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Pruning is best done in the morning when the plants are dry. The optimal period for pruning is throughout the growing season, whenever necessary, to keep the plant looking tidy and to stimulate new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Marigold (Tagetes erecta) should be well-draining and fertile, with a mix containing loamy or sandy soil enriched with organic compost. The pH level should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally between 6.0 and 7.5, to allow optimal nutrient uptake and robust growth.
RepottingMarigolds (Tagetes erecta) generally do not require frequent repotting as they are annuals. They should be planted in a well-sized container that can accommodate their growth for the entire growing season. Repotting is typically only needed if they outgrow their current container or if the soil needs refreshing.
Humidity & MistingMarigolds (Tagetes erecta) are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and do best in average ambient humidity. They do not have specific humidity requirements, making them suitable for typical outdoor conditions without the need for modifications.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, and well-draining soil for Marigolds indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Marigolds in full sun, with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleTagetes erecta, commonly known as the African Marigold, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in warm soil with full sunlight. Within days to weeks after germination, the seedling emerges with its first set of true leaves and soon establishes a small rosette. As the plant matures, it develops a strong, upright stem and a robust root system. The African Marigold typically enters the flowering stage a few weeks to months after germination, depending on the variety and growing conditions, producing vibrant yellow, orange, or white flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into seeds encapsulated in a dry fruit, a process that can occur multiple times throughout the growing season. The plant completes its life cycle when it dies back after seeding, usually with the onset of frost or with the completion of its annual growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagating Tagetes erecta, commonly known as marigold, is through seeds. The best time to sow marigold seeds is either in early spring after the last frost, or indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. To propagate, plant seeds 1/8 inch deep in well-draining soil and lightly cover with soil or potting mix. The seeds typically germinate within 4 to 14 days when kept moist and in a warm environment with temperatures around 70°F (21°C). Once seedlings have developed a couple of sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted to their final growing location, making sure to space them about 8 to 18 inches apart to allow for growth and air circulation. Marigolds thrive in full sun and tend to flower throughout the summer until the first frost hits.
