Aztec Marigold

Tagetes erecta

Also known as: French Marigold

Native to:
Guam, Guatemala, Mexico

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Asteraceae
Genus:
Tagetes
Species:
Tagetes erecta
USDA Symbol:
TAER

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Annual
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
120 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
jun,jul,aug,sep,oct
Bloom Colors:
yellow, orange, red, white

Reported Fauna Sightings

Bees: Brown-belted bumble bee (Bombus griseocollis), Eastern Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa virginica)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Fragrant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
moderately moist
Notes:
native to regions with seasonal rainfall

Propagation & Germination

Germination Time:
5–10 days
Notes:
Seeds germinate quickly in warm soil (21-24°C) with light; no pretreatment needed.

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 20C. Germinates within 3 months.

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society