French Marigold Tagetes patula 'Strawberry Blonde' (d)
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as 'Strawberry Blonde' is a striking variety that boasts a unique blend of colors in its bloom. The flowers are characterized by their bicolored petals, with warm shades ranging from deep strawberry-red to pastel pink, gracefully blending into a soft yellow at the edges. This gradient of color gives each flower a whimsical and attractive appeal, reminiscent of a strawberry dipped in cream. The center of each flower is typically a darker shade, sometimes appearing as a rich maroon or a deep crimson, which creates a striking contrast against the lighter tips. This combination of colors in the petals is what makes the 'Strawberry Blonde' variety outstanding and easily recognizable in any garden space. Leaves on this plant are fern-like in appearance, finely divided, and emanate a distinctive fragrance when touched or brushed against. They are generally a deep green color, which provides a lush backdrop to the colorful display of the flowers. The overall foliage complements the blooms and helps to accentuate their vibrant hues. The blooms themselves resemble a pom-pom or a fluffy ball due to their double flower structure. This means that the flowers have layers of petals, which contributes to a full, rounded appearance, adding to the plant's ornamental value. Overall, the 'Strawberry Blonde' presents as a captivating splash of colors, with its unique flowers drawing attention and adding a playful yet sophisticated touch to any planting arrangement. Whether planted in beds, borders, or containers, it's the flower's dynamic range of hues that make it especially appealing to gardeners looking to inject a vivid pop of color into their landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
French Marigold, Strawberry Blonde Marigold
Common names
Tagetes patula 'Strawberry Blonde'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Tagetes patula 'Strawberry Blonde' is French Marigold. French Marigolds are not known to be toxic to humans. There is no widespread report of toxicity from ingesting parts of the French Marigold plant, and it is generally considered safe for humans to handle. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities may occur, and it is always recommended to exercise caution and avoid ingesting plant material unless deemed safe by authoritative sources.
To pets
The common name for Tagetes patula 'Strawberry Blonde' is French Marigold. French Marigolds are generally not considered toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. These plants are often used in gardens and homes without posing significant risk to animals. However, ingestion of plant material can sometimes lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets due to irritation or sensitivity, which is usually not life-threatening. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large quantity of any plant and is exhibiting symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual behavior, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: Tagetes patula 'Strawberry Blonde' adds vibrant color and texture to gardens with its unique pink, orange, and yellow bicolored flowers.
- Pest deterrent: The plant is known to repel harmful insects and nematodes in the soil, protecting nearby plants.
- Companion planting: Tagetes patula 'Strawberry Blonde' can benefit vegetable crops by deterring pests when planted alongside them.
- Easy to grow: This marigold variety is known for being easy to care for, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought-tolerant: Once established, it can tolerate periods of low water, making it a good choice for xeriscaping or drought-prone areas.
- Attracts pollinators: The flowers can attract butterflies and bees, which are beneficial for the pollination of nearby plants.
- Edging and borders: The compact size and colorful flowers make it ideal for creating visual borders and edges in a garden landscape.
- Season-long blooms: It produces flowers from early summer until the first frost, providing long-lasting color in the garden.
- Low maintenance: Tagetes patula 'Strawberry Blonde' requires minimal care once established, needing only occasional watering and deadheading to thrive.
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: The petals of the French marigold contain carotenoids which can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics and food.
- Chicken Feed Additive: The petals can be added to chicken feed to intensify the color of egg yolks due to their lutein content.
- Companion Planting: French marigolds can be planted in vegetable gardens to help repel certain pests, such as nematodes, through their root secretions.
- Ceremonial and Festive Decor: They are used in cultural festivals such as Day of the Dead in Mexico and can be part of decorative garlands or altars.
- Garden Border Plants: Their compact size and vibrant colors make them ideal for creating visually appealing borders in landscaped areas.
- Potpourri Ingredient: Dried petals can be used in potpourri mixes to add color and a mild fragrance to a room.
- Art and Craft Supplies: Fresh or dried petals can be used for botanical art, such as pressed flower crafts and natural confetti.
- Natural Insect Repellant: French marigold's strong scent can help deter mosquitoes and other unwanted insects when placed in seating areas outdoors.
- Soil Health Indicator: Sometimes these plants are used by gardeners as an indicator of soil health, as they tend to thrive in fertile, well-draining soil.
- Religious Offerings: In some cultures, French marigolds are offered during religious ceremonies to honor deities or ancestors.
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: Marigolds, including 'Strawberry Blonde', often symbolize the warmth and power of the rising sun and the renewal of life.
- Desire for Riches: In some cultures, the vivid colors of marigolds are associated with wealth and success, inspiring a quest for prosperity.
- Overcoming Grief: Marigolds are sometimes planted on graves or used in ceremonies to honor the dead, representing consolation and the triumph over despair.
- Beauty and Warmth: The warm hues of 'Strawberry Blonde' marigolds embody attractive energy, suggesting a personable and welcoming nature.
- Creativity: Representing the fire of creativity, these flowers may inspire artistic thoughts and original ideas.
WaterTo properly water French Marigolds, ensure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water them deeply once a week with about one gallon of water per square foot, but adjust the frequency depending on rainfall and temperature. In hotter, drier conditions, they may need water twice a week, especially if they are in containers. During cooler seasons or when rainfall is ample, water less frequently. Check the soil before watering; if the first inch feels dry, it's time to water.
LightFrench Marigolds thrive in full sunlight, so the best spot for them is where they can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. They can tolerate partial shade, but the blooms might not be as abundant or vibrant. Ideally, place them in a location where morning sun dries the dew off the leaves to prevent diseases.
TemperatureFrench Marigolds prefer warm conditions and thrive in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. They can survive minimum temperatures of around 50°F but will suffer if temperatures dip below freezing. During hot weather, they can tolerate temperatures up to 90°F as long as they are watered adequately.
PruningFrench Marigolds benefit from deadheading to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. Periodically check the plants and remove spent flowers by pinching them off at the base. Prune any dead or unhealthy foliage to maintain air circulation and reduce the risk of disease. The best time for pruning is late afternoon when the plant recovers overnight.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFrench Marigold 'Strawberry Blonde' prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Mix equal parts of garden soil, compost, and peat or coco coir for optimal growth.
RepottingFrench Marigolds don't typically require repotting as they are annual plants, but if started indoors, transplant them outside after the last frost.
Humidity & MistingFrench Marigold 'Strawberry Blonde' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place French Marigold in a sunny window and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Plant French Marigold in full sun and well-draining soil after frost.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleFrench Marigold 'Strawberry Blonde' (Tagetes patula 'Strawberry Blonde') begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically occurring in spring when soil temperatures warm up. The germinated seedlings emerge and grow into small plants, establishing a root system and producing leaves. As the plants mature, they develop distinctive bushy foliage and branching stems. Flowering occurs in the summer, revealing the unique bicolored petals with shades of pink, rose, and yellow. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds that mature as the plant begins to senesce towards the end of the growing season. The life cycle can complete within one growing season as the French Marigold is an annual plant, with the seeds ready to propagate the next generation when favorable conditions return.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Tagetes patula 'Strawberry Blonde', commonly known as French Marigold, is commonly propagated through seeds. Seeds can be started indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date to get a head start on the growing season. Sow the seeds in a seed-starting mix, barely covering them with the mix, as they need light to germinate. Maintain a temperature in the growing medium of around 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 24 degrees Celsius) and keep it moist. Seedlings typically emerge in 5 to 7 days. After the danger of frost has passed and the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors into the garden or into containers.
