Tagetes erecta
Tagetes erecta
African marigold
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Taxonomy
Family Asteraceae · Genus Tagetes
Common Names
African marigoldAztec marigoldMexican marigold
Context
nativeRegion
Native to Mexico and Central America.
usdaZones
Grown as an annual in all zones; perennial only in frost-free, subtropical regions (USDA zones 9–11).
companionPlants
Tomatoes, Peppers, Beans, Basil, Cabbage
culturalUses
Important in Mexican Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations; ornamental bedding plant; sometimes used in traditional medicine and as a natural dye.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun; thrives with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
WateringModerate; water when the top inch of soil is dry, avoid waterlogging.
SoilWell-draining, loamy soil; adaptable but prefers fertile soils.
FertilizerFeed with balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during growth.
HumidityTolerates average humidity; not particularly fussy.
TemperaturePrefers warm conditions (18–26°C / 65–80°F); not frost tolerant.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitUpright annual herb, bushy with dense foliage.
Mature Size30–100 cm (1–3 ft) tall and up to 60 cm (2 ft) wide.
Growth RateFast-growing; completes life cycle in one season.
BloomingProlific bloomer during late spring to early autumn.
DormancyNo true dormancy; dies after seed production or frost.
Propagation
MethodsSeed
DifficultyEasy; high germination rates.
Best SeasonSpring, after last frost.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningDeadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage further blooming.
RepottingRarely needed; mostly grown as bedding annuals.
Pests & DiseasesOccasional spider mites, aphids, and fungal spots; generally pest resistant.
ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and most pets; sap may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
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