French Marigold Tagetes patula 'Alumia Gold' (Alumia Series)
ABOUT
Alumia Gold, a member of the Alumia Series, is a vibrant and eye-catching plant known for its ornamental appeal. The standout feature of Alumia Gold is its stunning flowers, which boast a rich, golden hue. These blooms have a classic marigold appearance, characterized by a densely packed cluster of petals that form a pompom-like shape, giving a full and lush look. The petals exhibit a velvety texture and may sometimes present a subtle mix of shades, creating a gradient effect from the center of the flower to its edges. While the flowers are the main attraction, the foliage of Alumia Gold also contributes to its overall beauty. The leaves are of a deep green color, with a ferny appearance that complements the golden flowers. They are arranged alternately along the stems, which gives the plant a lush, full-bodied backdrop for the striking blooms. In terms of its presence in a garden or container, Alumia Gold marigold provides a burst of warm color that can brighten up any space. It is often used for borders, mass plantings, and as a cheerful addition to mixed flower arrangements. Overall, its vivid golden flowers and attractive green foliage make Alumia Gold a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their outdoor or indoor landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
French Marigold, Alumia Gold Marigold
Common names
Tagetes patula 'Alumia Gold' (Alumia Series).
ToxicityTo humans
French marigold is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, sensitive individuals may experience mild irritation of the skin, eyes, or digestive system if they come into contact with the plant. Ingestion is not typically dangerous, but eating large amounts could potentially cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
To pets
French marigold is also not usually toxic to pets. However, as with humans, some animals might have a sensitivity that could lead to mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of the plant, like leaves or flowers. Symptoms could include vomiting or diarrhea but are typically not severe.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Gold
Height
8-10 inches (20-25 cm)
Spread
8-10 inches (20-25 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2-11
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Tagetes patula 'Alumia Gold' is prized for its bright yellow-gold blooms that add vibrant color to gardens and landscapes.
- Pest Control: The plant can help repel certain insect pests, contributing to natural garden pest management.
- Ease of Care: Known for being easy to grow, French Marigold is low maintenance and suitable for novice gardeners.
- Pollinator Attraction: French Marigolds attract bees and butterflies, supporting pollinator health and biodiversity.
- Drought Tolerance: It is relatively drought-resistant, requiring minimal watering once established, making it a water-wise choice for gardens.
- Edging and Borders: With its compact size, French Marigold is ideal for use in edging and borders to define garden spaces.
- Companion Planting: The plant is commonly used in companion planting to benefit vegetables and other garden plants.
- Seasonal Interest: French Marigold provides seasonal interest with long flowering periods from late spring to fall.
- Variety of Uses: It can be used in flower beds, container gardens, and as cut flowers thanks to its versatile nature and attractive appearance.
- Soil Improvement: By planting French Marigolds, gardeners can potentially help improve the soil quality as they sometimes suppress nematodes when their roots release certain chemicals.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural Dye: French marigold petals can be used to create a stunning natural dye for fabrics and textiles, imparting a range of yellow, orange, or red hues depending on the mordant used.
- Art and Crafts: Dried petals of French marigold can be incorporated into potpourris, or used in floral arrangements, wreaths, and other craft projects for their color and form.
- Insect Repellant: The strong scent of French marigold can be used in gardens to deter harmful insects, and occasionally the leaves and flowers are crushed and applied to the skin to repel mosquitoes.
- Companion Planting: When planted alongside vegetables like tomatoes and peppers, French marigolds are reputed to repel nematodes and other garden pests, enhancing the health and growth of companion plants.
- Festive Decor: In various cultures, they are used to make garlands and decorations for celebrations, ceremonies, and festivals due to their vibrant colors and abundant flowering.
- Culinary Ingredient: Although not as common, the petals of French marigolds are edible and can be used as a garnish or salad ingredient to add color to a variety of dishes.
- Chicken Feed Additive: Adding petals to chicken feed can help in producing egg yolks with a deeper yellow color as the carotenoids in the petals can be transferred to the yolks.
- Soil Indicator: The growth and health of French marigolds can sometimes be used as an indicator of soil quality, with robust plants suggesting good soil health.
- Photography: With their bright colors and interesting textures, French marigolds are often used as subjects in macro and nature photography.
- Religious Offerings: In some cultures, French marigolds are considered sacred and are used as offerings in temples or during religious rites.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe French Marigold is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe French Marigold is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Life and Vitality: The vibrant orange and yellow colors of the French Marigold (Tagetes patula 'Alumia Gold') are often associated with the sun and symbolize energy, warmth, and a zest for life.
- Desire for Riches: With their gold-colored blooms, French Marigolds are sometimes seen as a symbol of wealth, prosperity, and a wish for financial success.
- Overcoming Challenges: French Marigolds have a hardy nature, which can symbolize resilience and the ability to overcome difficulties or challenges.
- Beauty and Creativity: The eye-catching beauty of the French Marigold is often connected to a celebration of artistic expression and beauty in all its forms.
- Remembrance: In some cultures, marigolds are associated with remembering the dead, and they are used in ceremonies like Mexico's Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) to honor and remember those who have passed away.
WaterFrench Marigolds need consistent moisture, so water them thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Typically, this could mean watering once every week, but this may vary depending on climate and weather conditions. Aim to provide about 1 gallon of water per square yard every week during dry periods. It's best to water early in the morning to allow foliage to dry out during the day, thereby reducing the risk of diseases.
LightFrench Marigolds thrive in full sun, which means they should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for these plants is in an area that gets unfiltered sunlight throughout the day. If growing indoors, position them by a south-facing window to ensure they receive ample light.
TemperatureFrench Marigolds prefer warm conditions and grow best in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of about 50°F but will not survive frost conditions. The ideal temperature range ensures healthy growth and abundant flowering.
PruningRegular deadheading of French Marigolds encourages more blooms and a tidier appearance. Prune off spent flowers and any dead or damaged foliage as needed. The best time to prune is when flowers start to fade, and to ensure continued blooming, perform this task every 2 to 3 weeks throughout the growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFrench Marigolds thrive in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part compost or well-rotted manure, and one part sand or perlite is suitable. Maintain a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingFrench Marigolds, typically grown as annuals, don't usually require repotting. If started indoors, transplant once to the garden or outdoor containers after the last frost.
Humidity & MistingFrench Marigolds are tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions and thrive in moderate levels, matching that of outdoor environments, without the need for specific adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, and warm temperatures for indoor growth.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, enrich soil with compost, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleTagetes patula 'Alumia Gold', also known as French Marigold, begins its life cycle when seeds are sown in moist, well-drained soil preferably after the last frost for outdoor plantings. Germination typically occurs in 5 to 7 days at optimal temperatures between 70 to 75°F (21 to 24°C). Following germination, the seedlings grow rapidly, developing true leaves, and can be thinned or transplanted if started indoors. As the plant matures, it forms a bushy growth habit, producing vibrant yellow-orange flowers that bloom from early summer until frost. Throughout its life, it requires full sun and regular watering to maintain health and promote continuous flowering. At the end of the growing season, if left to seed, the plant can self-sow, completing its life cycle and potentially beginning anew the following year.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Tagetes patula 'Alumia Gold', commonly known as French Marigold, is often propagated through seeds. One of the most popular methods involves sowing seeds indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Seeds should be spread thinly over moist seed-starting mix, lightly covered with a sprinkle of soil, and kept at a temperature around 70°F (about 21°C). Germination typically occurs within 4 to 14 days. After seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves and have grown strong enough to handle, they can be transplanted to individual pots. Prior to transplanting outdoors, it's important to gradually acclimatize the plants to outdoor conditions through a process called hardening off. Once frost danger has passed and the plants are well-adjusted, they can be planted in the garden.
