There are around 40 species of Tagetes and all are native to the Americas, However, the two most cultivated by gardeners are Tagetes erecta most frequently referred to as African Marigold or Mexican Marigold, and Tagetes patula known widely as French Marigold.
Tagetes erecta (African Marigold)
Tagetes erecta or cempoalxóchil was introduced first to Spain and then to North Africa where it became naturalized. The story goes that sometime in the 1600s the plant was introduced to England from somewhere in N. Africa and so it was mistakenly thought of as and called an African flower. It’s also called Aztec Marigold most likely because it was cultivated by Aztecs and used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes. This species was introduced first to Boston in the mid-1700s.
Tagetes patula (French Marigold)
Tagetes patula is native to Guatemala and Mexico but known commonly as French marigold. And there isn’t a whole lot of writing as to why it’s called French other than it became popular in France although it seems the plant was brought to Europe by the Portuguese.
French marigold looks to have first been made available to the US in 1793.
Other Interesting or Semi-Interesting Things About This Plant
Most marigolds have some pest resistance but Tagetes patula is said to secrete a substance that kills nematodes. The plant has also been used as a pesticide for bed bugs.
Specifications & Growing Information
- Annual
- Full sun
- Stratification: No
- Sow directly outdoors in Spring after last frost
- Germination in 10-12 days at 70 F (needs steady warmth to germinate)
- Height 1-2.5 ft.
- Can be started indoors
Plant indoors 2 to 4 weeks before your area’s last frost date. Or plant outdoors after temperatures are consistently in the 50s or above. Plant in a sunny spot in weed-free soil. Barely cover with soil. Keep moist until plants are established.
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