Tagetes erecta

African marigold is a tender, flowering, herbaceous annual or houseplant in the daisy family (Asteraceae). The genus, Tagetes, is named for an Etruscan deity, Tages, and the specific epithet means erect or upright. Despite its common name, the plant is native to Mexico and Guatemala. There are many cultivars. 

African marigold does well in full sun, which encourages blooms, but appreciates light afternoon shade; it dislikes full shade. It tolerates clay and dry soil but prefers evenly moist, well-drained soil. It grows best from seed started indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Set plants out after the last frost date. Plants range from 1 to 4 feet high and 1 to 2 feet wide.Tall varieties may need staking, or plant them in sites protected from strong wind or heavy rain to minimize the need for stem support. Spent flowers should be promptly deadheaded, as flower heads are heavy and can cause stems to snap. You can pinch back stems on young plants to promote bushy growth. Seed is the best propagation method. 

African marigold has a long bloom season with fragrant, colorful, showy flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Leaves are also fragrant when brushed or crushed. This plant is seldom damaged by deer.  

Use African marigold in containers and in border, foundation or mass plantings. It is also recommended for butterfly and children’s gardens. 

Diseases, Insects and Other Plant Problems: Possible diseases include botrytis, leaf spot, phytophthora, powdery mildew and other rots. Potential insects include thrips, slugs and spider mites. Some cultivars have shown good to excellent resistance to phytophthora and fusarium wilt while other cultivars show poor resistance to abiotic disorder and fusarium wilt.

See Phytophthora Root and Crown Rot in the Landscape.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Annuals, Perennials, Vines, and Groundcovers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.