French Marigold Tagetes patula Durango Bolero = 'Pas221543' (Durango Series)
ABOUT
The Tagetes patula Durango Bolero, more commonly known as a French marigold, is a visually striking ornamental plant. The "Durango Bolero" variety showcases a vibrant display of flowers characterized by a rich blend of colors, predominantly deep orange and red hues, which may display as a bold, fiery red at the center, elegantly transitioning to darker edges. The petals are often beautifully marked with darker shades, creating an eye-catching contrast that makes the flowers stand out. The French marigold's blossoms are typically dense, double flowered, and have a pom-pom like appearance, giving them an almost fluffy texture. The flowers are arranged individually on branching stems and are complemented by a backdrop of dark green foliage. The leaves are fern-like in shape, emitting a distinctive, musky scent when touched or brushed against. This scent is part of the marigold's natural defense, helping to deter certain pests. The overall form of the French marigold is bushy and well-branched, creating a lush and full appearance in the garden. The plant continues to produce its brilliant flowers over a long blooming season, often extending from late spring through to fall, providing a continuous source of bright color and interest in the garden or in containers.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
French Marigold, Dwarf Marigold.
Common names
Tagetes patula Durango Bolero = 'Pas221543' (Durango Series).
ToxicityTo humans
French marigold is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, it's important to note that some people may have sensitivity to the plant, which could result in dermatitis or other allergic reactions upon touching the plant. Ingesting parts of this plant is typically not associated with serious poisoning, but it could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some cases.
To pets
French marigold is also considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. While it is not typically associated with severe toxicity, ingestion may lead to minor gastrointestinal irritation, including upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea. If a pet displays symptoms after consuming the plant, it's best to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
10 inches (25 cm)
Spread
8 inches (20 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2-11
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Blooms: Tagetes patula Durango Bolero is known for its vibrant, bi-colored flowers that add aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Pest Deterrent: The plant is reputed to repel certain insect pests, making it a beneficial companion plant in vegetable gardens.
- Drought Tolerance: It is relatively drought-tolerant once established, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Easy to Grow: This marigold is low maintenance and can easily be grown by gardeners of all skill levels.
- Edging Plant: Its compact size makes it ideal for borders, edging, and small garden spaces.
- Long Blooming Period: The plant typically has a long flowering season, providing color from late spring to fall.
- Attracts Pollinators: Bees and butterflies are attracted to the flowers, aiding in the pollination of nearby plants.
- Soil Improvement: Marigolds are known for their ability to help improve soil quality through root secretions.
- Container Planting: They are well-suited for container gardening, allowing for decorative flexibility on patios and balconies.
- Seasonal Decor: The bright orange and red blooms are often associated with fall, making them popular for seasonal displays.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural dye: The bright orange and yellow pigments of Tagetes patula can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, yarns, and cosmetics.
- Nematode control: Tagetes patula can be planted as a cover crop to reduce nematode populations in the soil, due to its biofumigant properties.
- Insect repellent: The plant’s strong scent can deter insects and can be used in gardens to protect other plants.
- Companion planting: Tagetes patula is often planted among vegetable crops like tomatoes and peppers to deter pests and enhance growth.
- Culinary garnish: The petals, being edible, can be used as a colorful garnish in salads or to decorate desserts.
- Traditional celebrations: In certain cultures, Tagetes patula is used in festivals and religious ceremonies as decoration due to its vivid colors.
- Potpourri: The dried flowers can be included in potpourri mixtures to add color and a subtle fragrance to a room.
- Art and crafts: The dried petals can be used in various art and craft projects, such as for making natural confetti or in paper-making.
- Photography prop: The vibrant flowers of Tagetes patula make an attractive prop for photographers looking to add a splash of color to their compositions.
- Color indicator: The pH-sensitive pigments in Tagetes patula petals can serve as a simple natural pH indicator for educational purposes or science experiments.
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 colors of the French Marigold (Tagetes patula), often associated with the sun, symbolize energy and the beauty of life.
- Protection: French Marigolds have been traditionally used in cultural and religious ceremonies to ward off evil spirits and negativity.
- Remembrance of the Dead: In Mexican culture, the French Marigold is used during Día de los Muertos celebrations to honor and remember the deceased.
- Overcoming Challenges: The hardy nature of the French Marigold, thriving in various conditions, makes it a symbol of resilience and overcoming life's obstacles.
- Beauty and Warmth: The French Marigold, with its fiery hues, can represent a warm and inviting presence, as well as outward beauty.
- Healing: Some cultures believe in the healing properties of the French Marigold for various ailments, symbolizing health and recovery.
WaterFrench Marigolds should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this will mean watering once or twice a week, depending on the climate and weather conditions. Ensure that water penetrates deep into the soil to encourage deep root growth. Use enough water to moisten the soil all the way down to the roots but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. It's better to water in the morning to allow any moisture on the foliage to dry out during the day, thus reducing the risk of disease.
LightFrench Marigolds thrive best in full sun conditions where they can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. They should be planted in a spot that has unobstructed access to sunlight throughout the day for optimal growth and flowering. While they can tolerate light shade, too little sun may result in weak plants with fewer blooms.
TemperatureFrench Marigolds prefer warmer temperatures and perform best when the temperature is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of about 50 degrees Fahrenheit and a maximum of around 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that they are not exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit as frost can damage or kill the plants.
PruningTo encourage French Marigolds to produce more blooms and maintain a bushy, attractive shape, prune by deadheading spent flowers regularly. Pruning should be done throughout the growing season as needed. The best time for more substantial pruning, such as cutting back leggy stems, is in late summer to promote a new flush of growth and blooms into the fall.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFrench marigolds, such as Tagetes patula 'Durango Bolero', thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix containing peat, compost, perlite, and garden soil often works best, providing nutrients and proper aeration for root development.
RepottingFrench marigolds typically do not require frequent repotting as they are annuals. They are usually sown directly into the garden or repotted only when they outgrow their current container, which may be once per growing season if grown in pots.
Humidity & MistingFrench marigolds prefer moderate humidity levels. They are quite adaptable and do not have specific humidity requirements but perform well in average outdoor humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in sunny spot, use well-draining soil, moderate watering.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, enrich soil, water regularly, deadhead.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleThe French marigold (Tagetes patula) 'Durango Bolero' begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically in the spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed. It quickly develops into a seedling with a pair of true leaves, which precedes the vegetative growth stage as the plant forms a compact bush with dense foliage. Flowering soon follows, with 'Durango Bolero' producing its distinctive bicolored red and yellow blooms that attract pollinators and are often deadheaded to promote continuous flowering. As an annual, this plant will set seeds later in the growing season if flowers are left to mature, completing its reproductive cycle. After seed setting, towards the end of the growing season, the plant will begin to senesce and die off with the first heavy frost. The seeds can then be collected or naturally dispersed to start the cycle anew the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Tagetes patula, commonly known as French marigold, 'Durango Bolero' variety, is typically propagated through seeds. The most popular method is direct sowing into the soil or starting the seeds indoors. When starting indoors, sow the seeds 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date at a shallow depth of about 1/8 inch (approximately 3 mm). The soil should be kept moist but not saturated to encourage germination. Place the seed trays or pots in a warm area with plenty of light; seeds usually germinate within a few days to two weeks. Once the seedlings have developed true leaves and are sturdy enough, they can be transplanted outdoors after the risk of frost has passed, spacing the plants 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm) apart to accommodate their mature size.
