Tagetes tenuifolia
Tagetes tenuifolia is the signet marigold, a fine‑textured species with lacy foliage and many small single flowers. It stands out for an airy mound and citrus‑scented leaves. Plants thrive in full sun and well‑drained soils and tolerate lean conditions and heat. Bloom runs from early summer to fall; many small flowers replace heavy heads. In most of North America it is grown as an annual; in frost‑free areas it can act as a short‑lived perennial. Compact size suits edging, rock gardens, and containers.
At‑a‑glance
Group/Class: Signet marigold (species)
- Height × spread: 8-30 in × 9-30 in (20-75 cm × 23-75 cm)
- Bloom window: early summer to fall
- Color & flower form: Yellow to orange; small single daisies 0.5-1 in
- Fragrance: 1 trace
- USDA hardiness: grown as annual in most of North America
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Cavanilles, 1793, Mexico to Peru
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Finer foliage and smaller single blooms than typical marigolds.
- Mounded, airy habit that stays neat in heat.
- Often more tolerant of drought once established.
- Less prone to snapping because flower mass is light.
Strengths
- Long bloom with regular deadheading.
- Handles heat and lean soils.
- Deer resistant and attractive to bees and butterflies.
- Low maintenance with tidy habit.
Care in one minute
- Full sun; well‑drained soil, pH around 6 to 7.5.
- Water to establish; then weekly in hot, dry periods.
- No heavy feeding; a light, balanced start charge is enough.
- Deadhead to extend bloom; shear lightly if plants tire.
- Not winter hardy in cold zones.
Watch‑outs
- Snails and slugs can chew young plants.
- Botrytis can spot flowers in cool, wet weather.
- Taller selections can lean after storms.
Best uses (tags)
edging, containers, borders, pollinators, drought‑tolerant
Provenance note
Described by Cavanilles in 1793; native from Mexico to Peru and widely grown as a compact bedding annual.
References
- NC State Extension – Tagetes tenuifolia
- UF/IFAS Extension – Tagetes tenuifolia (EDIS FP572)
- University of Minnesota Extension – Gray mold on annuals
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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