French Marigold Tagetes patula 'Alumia Red' (Alumia Series)
ABOUT
Tagetes patula 'Alumia Red', commonly known as the French Marigold, is a striking ornamental annual that showcases vividly colored blooms. This particular variety 'Alumia Red' is characterized by its eye-catching red flowers. Each blossom is rich and velvety, with a deep red hue that can sometimes vary, displaying tones that range from a bright, fiery red to a more subdued, rusty red. The flowers are comprised of numerous layered petals that create a fluffy and dense appearance. The French Marigold's foliage is equally appealing, with a lush green color that forms a striking contrast against the red petals. The leaves are fern-like with a fine, feathery texture and exhibit jagged edges, which gives the plant an overall delicate and intricate look. Forms small clusters, the contrast between the dark green foliage and the red blossoms creates an alluring visual impact. Overall, Tagetes patula 'Alumia Red' is a showy plant that would undoubtedly capture attention in any garden setting with its vibrant red flowers and lacy green leaves. It is a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a pop of color to their flower beds or containers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
French Marigold, Alumia Vanilla Cream.
Common names
Tagetes patula 'Alumia Red'
ToxicityTo humans
The French Marigold, which includes the variety Tagetes patula 'Alumia Red,' is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, if any part of the plant is ingested in large quantities, mild gastrointestinal discomfort could potentially occur, although such instances are uncommon. Handling the plant could cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals, due to its essential oils and pigments.
To pets
The French Marigold, including the variety Tagetes patula 'Alumia Red,' is not known to be toxic to pets. It is generally considered safe when pets are exposed to it, and there are no significant symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion of large amounts might result in mild gastrointestinal upset in some animals.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Tagetes patula 'Alumia Red', commonly known as French Marigold, features vibrant red flowers that add color and visual interest to gardens, borders, and containers.
- Pest Deterrence: French Marigolds are known to deter certain garden pests, making them beneficial for natural pest control in vegetable gardens and ornamental beds.
- Easy to Grow: They are relatively low maintenance and easy to grow, which makes them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Attracts Pollinators: These plants produce flowers that attract beneficial insects like butterflies and bees, thus promoting pollination in the garden.
- Companion Planting: French Marigolds are often used in companion planting to enhance the growth of certain vegetables and deter pests.
- Duration of Bloom: The plant offers a long blooming season from early summer until frost, providing continuous color and interest.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, they exhibit a degree of drought tolerance, making them suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Edging and Mass Planting: Their size and shape make them ideal for use as edging plants or for mass planting for a dramatic effect.
- Soil Improvement: As members of the marigold family, these plants are believed to help improve soil quality through their root system.
- Culinary Uses: Although not a primary benefit, petals of French Marigolds can be used as a colorful garnish in some culinary dishes.
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: French marigolds can be planted alongside vegetables to deter pests such as nematodes, aphids, and whiteflies.
- Natural dye: The vibrant petals of French marigolds can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics, giving them a warm, golden hue.
- Livestock feed: In some cultures, French marigold flowers are added to chicken feed to enhance the color of egg yolks.
- Garden aesthetics: As part of xeriscaping, French marigolds can add color and beauty to drought-tolerant landscapes.
- Lucky charm: In certain traditions, French marigolds are considered symbols of good luck and are planted to attract positive energy.
- Flavoring: Although not commonly known, the petals of French marigolds can add a spicy flavor to salads and other dishes.
- Potpourri: Dried French marigold flowers can contribute a pleasant aroma and color to homemade potpourri blends.
- Ceremonial uses: Marigolds may be used in various cultural ceremonies, including Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico to honor deceased loved ones.
- Creative crafts: The petals of French marigolds can be used in crafting, such as making natural confetti or decorating homemade soaps.
- Garden borders: French marigolds make effective and attractive low borders for defining the edges of garden beds or pathways.
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 vivid red color of the Tagetes patula 'Alumia Red' is commonly associated with energy and the vibrancy of life.
- Creativity: The bright and bold hue can symbolize creativity and inspiration, encouraging one to explore new ideas and express oneself.
- Passion: Red is a traditional symbol of strong emotions, and this plant may represent a fiery passion for things or people one loves.
- Protection: Marigolds, including this particular variety, are often considered protective plants that can ward off negative energies and pests in gardens.
- Beauty and Warmth: The warm red tones can symbolize beauty and a nurturing presence that offers comfort and joy to those around it.
- Celebration: Due to their use in festivities such as the Day of the Dead, they can represent celebration and remembrance of loved ones.
WaterFrench Marigolds should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Typically, watering once a week with about 1 inch of water should suffice, but this may vary depending on climate conditions and soil type. During extremely hot or dry periods, you might need to water more frequently, potentially twice a week. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering to avoid overwatering.
LightFrench Marigolds thrive in full sunlight conditions and should be planted in a spot that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. These plants will perform best and produce the most abundant blooms when placed in an area with ample sunlight. Although they can tolerate partial shade, the flowering will be less prolific, and the plants may become leggy as they stretch towards the light.
TemperatureFrench Marigolds prefer warm conditions and do well in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can withstand higher temperatures but may require additional watering. They are not frost-tolerant and should not be exposed to temperatures below 35 degrees Fahrenheit, as this can damage or kill the plants. For optimal growth, maintain them within their preferred temperature range and protect them from cold snaps.
PruningFrench Marigolds benefit from occasional deadheading to remove spent flowers and encourage further blooming. Regularly prune off dead or fading flowers to promote continuous flowering throughout the season. The best time for pruning is when blooms begin to wilt or right after they fade. Lightly prune the plant to shape it and prevent legginess, doing so every few weeks or as needed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFrench Marigold thrives in well-draining, fertile loam with a pH between 6.0-7.5. Amend soil with compost or well-rotted manure for best growth.
RepottingFrench Marigold, being an annual, does not typically require repotting. Plant in the garden or pots after frost.
Humidity & MistingFrench Marigold prefers average to low humidity conditions and does not require special humidity considerations.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, and water moderately.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun after frost; keep soil moist.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the French Marigold 'Alumia Red' begins with the germination of seeds planted in well-drained soil, ideally after the danger of frost has passed. Seedlings emerge in a few days to weeks, depending on the temperature and growing conditions. Next, the plant enters the vegetative stage, where leaves and stems grow rapidly, followed by the formation of distinctive red flowers—a sign the plant has entered the reproductive stage. Pollination occurs through insects or wind, leading to the production of seeds at the end of the bloom period. After seed setting, as temperatures drop or growing conditions decline, the plant enters senescence and eventually dies, completing its annual life cycle. However, if seeds are collected or fall to the ground, they can give rise to new plants the following season, continuing the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Propogation: The French Marigold 'Alumia Red' is typically propagated through seeds. To do this, seeds should be sown in early spring after all danger of frost has passed for outdoor planting, or they can be started indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date for an earlier bloom. For indoor sowing, fill a flat or container with a moistened, well-drained seed starting mix, and sprinkle the seeds on top. Lightly cover the seeds with a thin layer of the medium, as they need some light to germinate. Keep the soil temperature around 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 24 degrees Celsius) and maintain consistent moisture. Seedlings usually emerge in 5 to 14 days, and once they are strong enough, they can be transplanted outdoors into a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
