Tagetes aka Naughty Marietta Marigold

Tagetes, also known as marigolds, is a genus of fast-growing, bushy annual or perennial plants in the family Asteraceae. Described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753, these plants are mainly herbaceous and native to North and South America, particularly Mexico. They can be found naturally in Mexico's valley and extending to other Latin American countries. Some species of Tagetes have become naturalized across the globe, although T. minuta is considered invasive in certain areas. With dark green, deeply-divided leaves, Tagetes can grow up to 90cm tall. From summer to early autumn, they produce single flower heads with dark red petals edged in orange-gold and golden-orange centers. Marigolds are widely loved for their cheerful and vibrant appearance, bringing shades of gold, copper, and brass to gardens throughout the summer and autumn. These flowers have daisy-like or carnation-like flowerheads that bloom continuously. The three most common species are Tagetes erecta, which are the tallest and most upright, reaching heights of three to four feet. Tagetes patula, also known as French marigolds, are more compact. Signet marigolds, scientifically known as Tagetes tenuifolia, prefer hot and dry sites and make excellent edging plants.