Marigold
Tagetes
Family: Asteraceae · Also called Tagetes, French Marigold, African Marigold, Solenotheca, Diglossus, Enalcida
Earthy & Warm · Summer–Autumn bloomer
The marigold blazes with the colors of fire, from pale yellow through deep orange to russet red. One of the most reliable garden flowers, it blooms prolifically from early summer until frost, requiring almost no care. Its pungent foliage deters many garden pests, making it a natural companion plant.
warmth, creativity, remembrance
In the Victorian language of flowers, marigold means “Warmth and creative energy”. In Mexico, marigolds (cempasúchil) are the flower of Día de los Muertos, their pungent scent is believed to guide spirits of the dead back home. In India, garlands of marigolds adorn temples, weddings, and festivals. Hindu tradition considers them the 'herb of the sun.'
Did You Know?
Marigold petals contain lutein, a powerful antioxidant. They are commercially farmed to extract lutein for eye health supplements. The petals are also used as a natural food coloring and to deepen the yellow of egg yolks in poultry feed.
Open, sunny areas from Mexico through Central and South America
Marigold is native to Americas. It naturally grows in open, sunny areas from mexico through central and south america.
Scent Profile
“A pungent, musky-herbal fragrance with citrus hints, bold and distinctive, divisive but unforgettable.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NameTagetes
- FamilyAsteraceae
- Native ToAmericas
- Bloom SeasonSummer–Autumn
- LifespanAnnual
- Birth MonthOctober
Cultural Significance
In Mexico, marigolds (cempasúchil) are the flower of Día de los Muertos, their pungent scent is believed to guide spirits of the dead back home. In India, garlands of marigolds adorn temples, weddings, and festivals. Hindu tradition considers them the 'herb of the sun.'