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Tagetes patula
French marigold (species) · Linnaeus, 1753, Mexico and Guatemala
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: French marigold (species)
- Height × spread: 6-12 in × 6-9 in (15-30 cm × 15-23 cm)
- Bloom window: June to frost
- Color & flower form: Yellow, orange, red, and bicolor; single to double 1-2 in
- Fragrance: 2 noticeable
- USDA hardiness: grown as annual in most of North America
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Linnaeus, 1753, Mexico and Guatemala
- Cut‑flower notes: Short stems; arrange as posies; vase life about 5-10 days
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- More compact, mounded habit than African marigold.
- Broader color range and bicolors.
- Earlier and more continuous bedding color in small spaces.
- Suited to edging and container culture.
Strengths
- Reliable season‑long color with minimal care.
- Performs well in containers and along edges.
- Deer tend to avoid foliage.
- Uniform growth for mass planting.
Care in one minute
Full sun; average, well‑drained soil.
Water regularly in dry spells; avoid soggy soil.
Light fertilizer at transplant; avoid excess nitrogen.
Pinch once to encourage branching; deadhead to keep blooms coming.
No overwintering outdoors in cold zones.
Watch‑outs
- Flowering can pause in peak summer heat.
- Powdery mildew or Botrytis may develop in wet, humid periods.
- Spider mites and thrips can appear in hot, dry weather.
Best uses (tags)
Provenance note
: Described by Linnaeus in 1753; native to Mexico and Guatemala; widely bred for bedding performance.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Tagetes patula profile
- Clemson University HGIC – Marigold
- NC State Extension – Tagetes (genus) profile
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