Also known as Clown Marigold · Marigold · Spreading Marigold
French marigold (Tagetes patula) is a vibrant annual known for its cheerful, daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red. It's a popular garden choice for its
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and growth.
Regular
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C during the day; can tolerate slightly cooler nights.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season; switch to low nitrogen when blooming.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
French marigolds prefer consistently moist soil but dislike waterlogged conditions. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler periods or when the plant is dormant.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Deadheading spent flowers regularly encourages the plant to produce more blooms and prolongs the flowering season. Pinching back young plants can promote bushier growth.
Prune any yellowing or dead leaves to maintain plant health and appearance.
French marigolds are easily grown from seeds, sown indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Seeds germinate readily in warm, moist soil within 5-10 days.
French marigolds are typically grown as annuals and rarely require repotting if planted directly in the ground. If grown in containers, repot them into a slightly larger pot in spring if they become root-bound, using a well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of French Marigold (Tagetes patula)
Where French Marigold (Tagetes patula) 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 patula |
Similar in genus Tagetes
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
