Tagetes erecta aka Marigold
Taxonomy
Tagetes erecta, also known as the Aztec marigold, Mexican marigold, big marigold, cempazúchitl or cempasúchil, is a species flowering plant native to Mexico. Despite its American origin, it is often referred to as the African marigold. This bushy annual plant reaches heights ranging from 20 to 90 cm (7.9 to 35.4 in) and features aromatic, deep green, divided leaves. From early summer to autumn, it produces large, double yellow flowers. The Aztecs utilized this plant for medicinal, ceremonial, and decorative purposes, both gathering it from the wild and cultivating it. Today, it is widely commercially cultivated with various cultivars used as ornamental plants and for the cut-flower trade. Some consider Tagetes patula (French marigold) to be a synonym of Tagetes erecta. African marigold, as it is commonly known, is an annual plant that can also be called American marigold. It showcases huge, round blooms on sturdy stems, accompanied by vibrant green, ferny foliage. Growing up to 2 to 3 feet in height, these sun-loving plants are drought-tolerant and display an array of bright colors such as orange, yellow, rusty-red, mahogany, and gold. The impressive flowers can measure up to 5 inches in diameter. In Mexico, Tagetes erecta can be found in the wild in certain states, including México, Michoacán, Puebla, and Veracruz.
Common names
Marigold, (Genda Phool), African MarigoldHow to care for Marigold
Difficulty
Marigold is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Water
Marigold should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Marigold loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Marigold requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Marigold will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
Toxicity
Marigold is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Humidity
The Marigold is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.
Fertilizer
The Marigold should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
The Marigold is clumping in nature, with new growth originating from the soil in close proximity to the original plant.
Region of origin
Marigold’s native range is the Americas.
Flower
If you provide your Marigold with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
