Species African marigold

African marigold

Tagetes erecta

African marigold (Tagetes erecta) is an annual flowering plant from the aster family native to Mexico and Central America. Growing up to two feet tall, its pinnate leaves are a light shade of green and may be slightly toothed or lobed. The bright yellow, orange-yellow, russet, or white daisy-like flowers consist of single or multiple florets encircled by a ring of broad ray petals. The African marigold is drought tolerant and prefers well-draining soil in full sun. True to its Mexican ancestry, the blooms last late into the winter and make excellent cut flowers. A great addition to any garden, the African marigold is also an excellent companion for herbs and vegetables.

Cycle:

Annual

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

2 - 11

Flowers:

Yellow, orange, and whitish Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red,yellow,orange

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

African marigolds need thorough watering on a regular basis, at least once every 3 to 5 days. Newly planted African marigolds should receive more frequent and abundant amounts of water to help them to settle in. When watering, it is important to water deeply and thoroughly. Allow the soil to dry out a bit between waterings, then water again until the soil is thoroughly moist but not soggy. To check soil moisture, stick your finger into the soil to a depth of 1-2 inches. If the soil feels dry, it is time to water.

sunlight

African marigolds (Tagetes erecta) thrive in direct sunlight and need at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight a day. In areas with limited sunlight, the plant should be grown in a sunny spot to ensure optimal growth. Although African marigolds are somewhat shade tolerant, they will not flower as abundantly or reach their mature height without plenty of sunlight.

pruning

African marigolds should be pruned in late winter or early spring once its blooming season has ended. To promote healthy new growth, the spent flowers should be cut off at the stem, as well as any foliage that looks sick or of poor quality. Marigolds should be pruned back to about 6 to 8 inches above the ground. Pruning helps with aeration and encourages new growth and thicker plants. It also encourages more blooms, as it can help shape and tidy the plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

African marigolds typically start flowering in late spring or early summer, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

African marigolds typically start flowering in late spring or early summer, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map