Tagetes lucida aka Mexican Mint Marigold
Taxonomy ID: 2312
Tagetes lucida, also known as Sweetscented Marigold or Mexican marigold, is a perennial plant native to Mexico and Central America. It produces lowish, shrub-like growth of about 12" high, with bright yellow flowers that can last until the frost. Its leaves give off an anise-like scent with hints of tarragon and licorice, making it a popular culinary and medicinal herb in Latin America, sometimes used as a substitute for French Tarragon. It is drought-tolerant and can act as an insect repellent, making it ideal for borders, pots, and rockery areas. Sweetscented Marigold is also a great houseplant, thriving in direct sunlight and needing regular watering and occasional repotting for optimal growth.
Common names
Mexican Mint Marigold, Texas Tarragon, Mexican TarragonMore information about Mexican Mint Marigold
How difficult is it to take care of Mexican Mint Marigold
Mexican Mint Marigold is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
What is the growth pattern and size of Mexican Mint Marigold?
New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.
What is the region of origin of Mexican Mint Marigold
Mexican Mint Marigold’s native range is the Americas.
What are the water needs for Mexican Mint Marigold
Mexican Mint Marigold should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Mexican Mint Marigold
Mexican Mint 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.
What is the sunlight requirement for Mexican Mint Marigold
Mexican Mint 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 Mexican Mint Marigold will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
What's the right humidity for Mexican Mint Marigold
The Mexican Mint 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.
How to fertilize Mexican Mint Marigold
The Mexican Mint 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.
Is Mexican Mint Marigold toxic to humans/pets?
Mexican Mint Marigold is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
More info:
Wikipedia
