Marigolds

Marigold is the common name for several flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, most notably Tagetes species and Calendula officinalis. The Tagetes group includes Tagetes patula, the French marigold, and Tagetes erecta, the African or big marigold. Calendula officinalis is called the pot marigold or calendula. These plants are valued for their bright yellow, orange, and sometimes red blossoms and are widely cultivated as ornamentals.

Description: Most marigolds have aromatic leaves and a bushy habit. Flowers are composite heads with ray florets arranged around a central disc; colors range from pale cream to deep orange, with many cultivars showing two-tone petals. Leaves and growth habit vary by species, with Tagetes often more compact and Calendula typically more herbaceous.

Cultivation: Marigolds are generally annuals in temperate regions. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Tagetes species tend to flower best in hot weather; Calendula tolerates cooler conditions. They can be grown from seeds started indoors or sown directly after the last frost. Deadheading promotes continuous flowering. Spacing depends on cultivar.

Uses and cultural notes: Marigolds are widely used in beds, borders, and containers for bright color. Calendula petals are edible and used in salads, teas, and as a natural colorant. Tagetes are commonly used in companion planting to deter certain pests and nematodes, though effectiveness varies. They also appear in traditional medicine and dyes in some cultures.

Ecology and notes: They attract pollinators such as bees and hoverflies. They can be short-lived in some climates and may self-seed in favorable conditions. Some gardeners find marigolds relatively drought-tolerant and easy to grow, while humid conditions can promote diseases like powdery mildew.