Water
Water Mexican Marigolds regularly, especially during dry spells. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Ensure good drainage in pots or garden beds for optimal health.
Also known as African Marigold · African Or French Marigold · American Marigold
Mexican Marigold (Tagetes erecta) is a vibrant annual herb known for its large, showy flowers in shades of yellow and orange, widely used for ornamental and cultural purp
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 15-25°C. Sensitive to frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Generally considered non-toxic to pets and humans. Some individuals may experience mild skin irritation from sap.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Mexican Marigolds regularly, especially during dry spells. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Ensure good drainage in pots or garden beds for optimal health.
Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming and prevent the plant from going to seed.
Light pruning can also help maintain the plant's shape and vigor.
Mexican Marigolds are easily grown from seeds sown directly in the garden after the last frost, or started indoors 6-8 weeks prior. Seeds germinate quickly in warm conditions.
Cuttings can also be taken from healthy plants and rooted.
Repot Mexican Marigolds if they become root-bound, typically when the plant outgrows its current container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, with drainage holes.
Repot in spring or early summer.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Mexican Marigold (Tagetes erecta)
Where Mexican Marigold (Tagetes erecta) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Tagetes |
| Species | Tagetes erecta |
Similar in genus Tagetes
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
