in bloom
now
through Oct
Bloom calendar
Tagetes tenuifolia
Signet marigold (species) · Cavanilles, 1793, Mexico to Peru
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)
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
