Marigolds, predominantly from the genus Tagetes, are a group of flowering plants native to the Americas, with a strong presence in Mexico and Central America, where they’ve thrived for centuries before spreading globally. With over 50 recognized species, they’re celebrated for their vivid hues—yellows, oranges, reds, and occasional whites—produced by annuals (and some perennials in warm climates) that range from a few inches to over three feet tall.
The main types include Tagetes erecta (African marigolds), Tagetes patula (French marigolds), and Tagetes tenuifolia (signet marigolds), each offering distinct sizes and flower forms, from small singles to large, fluffy doubles. Their adaptability to various climates and soils has made them a beloved choice for gardeners everywhere.
African marigolds tower with blooms up to 5 inches wide, perfect for bold statements in beds or as cut flowers, while French marigolds, with their bushy 6-12-inch frames, excel in borders and containers. Signet marigolds, with delicate, lacy foliage and petite flowers, add charm to edging or rock gardens.
These hardy plants flourish in full sun and well-drained soil, requiring minimal care beyond occasional deadheading to prolong their bloom season, which typically spans from late spring or early summer until the first frost. Marigolds tolerate heat and drought well, though they falter in heavy frost, and their pungent scent—emitted by leaves and stems—is a signature trait that sets them apart from more delicate blooms.
Marigolds carry rich cultural weight, particularly in Mexico, where Tagetes erecta, known as cempasúchil, is central to Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Their bright petals and strong fragrance are believed to guide spirits back to the living world, adorning altars, graves, and streets in elaborate displays. In India, marigolds are woven into garlands for weddings, festivals like Diwali, and religious offerings, symbolizing prosperity and joy.
Marigolds sprout readily from seeds sown directly in the ground or started indoors, thriving in poor to average soil without much fuss. Modern hybrids, like triploids (crosses of African and French types), extend blooming periods by being sterile, focusing energy on flowers rather than seeds, while heirlooms like ‘Naughty Marietta’ preserve historical charm with their quirky patterns. Though generally pest-resistant, they can attract spider mites in dry conditions, remedied with a blast of water.
Types of Marigolds
African Marigold (Tagetes erecta)
African marigolds, also known as American or Mexican marigolds, are the tallest of the Tagetes species, often reaching 3-4 feet in height. Native to Mexico and Central America—despite the misleading name—they produce large, double, pom-pom-like flowers up to 5 inches across in shades of yellow, orange, and creamy white. Their sturdy, upright stems make them ideal as cut flowers or bold garden borders. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and are often used in companion planting to deter nematodes. In Mexico, they’re a staple in Day of the Dead celebrations, symbolizing remembrance.
French Marigold (Tagetes patula)
French marigolds, another misnomer as they too hail from Mexico, are compact and bushy, typically growing 6-12 inches tall. Their flowers, up to 2 inches wide, come in single, semi-double, or double forms, displaying vibrant yellows, oranges, reds, and bicolors like maroon and gold. Known for their pest-repellent qualities—especially against nematodes—they’re popular in vegetable gardens as companions to crops like tomatoes. Their smaller size suits containers and edging, and they bloom profusely from summer to frost, tolerating wetter conditions better than African varieties.
Signet Marigold (Tagetes tenuifolia)
Signet marigolds, sometimes called gem marigolds, are petite plants, rarely exceeding 12 inches in height, with a mounding habit. Native to Mexico and Central America, they feature small, single flowers (about 1 inch wide) in yellow, orange, or red, paired with finely divided, lacy foliage that emits a lemony scent. These edible blooms are used in salads or as garnishes, adding a subtle citrus flavor. Their delicate appearance makes them perfect for edging or window boxes, and they attract pollinators while thriving in hot, dry sites.
Mexican Tarragon (Tagetes lucida)
Mexican tarragon, also known as Spanish tarragon or Mexican mint marigold, is a perennial in warm climates (USDA Zones 8-11) but grown as an annual elsewhere. Reaching 16-20 inches tall, it produces small, bright yellow single flowers in late summer and fall. Its anise-scented foliage is the star, used as a culinary herb in Mexican dishes or as a tarragon substitute. Unlike other marigolds, it’s less about showy blooms and more about flavor and fragrance, making it a favorite in herb gardens or as a border plant.
Triploid Marigold (Tagetes erecta x Tagetes patula)
Triploid marigolds are hybrids of African and French varieties, combining the large blooms of the former with the compact resilience of the latter. Growing 12-18 inches tall, they produce vibrant, double flowers in yellows, oranges, and whites, often 3-4 inches wide. Sterile and seedless, they channel energy into continuous blooming from early summer to frost, excelling in heat and humidity. Their robust nature and prolonged flowering make them standout choices for beds, borders, and containers.
‘Crackerjack’ Marigold (Tagetes erecta ‘Crackerjack’)
‘Crackerjack’ is an heirloom African marigold cultivar, growing to 36 inches tall with large, fluffy, carnation-like flowers up to 5 inches across in bright yellow and orange. Its towering height and dense blooms make it a showstopper in garden beds or as a cut flower for arrangements. This variety thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, blooming from midsummer to frost. Its bold presence and long-lasting flowers have kept it a classic choice for gardeners seeking dramatic color.
‘Lemon Gem’ Marigold (Tagetes tenuifolia ‘Lemon Gem’)
‘Lemon Gem’ is a signet marigold with a compact, 10-12-inch stature and small, single, bright yellow flowers that glow against its aromatic, lemon-scented foliage. The blooms, about 1 inch wide, are edible, adding a citrusy zest to culinary dishes. Perfect for borders, rock gardens, or containers, it blooms prolifically from summer to frost, attracting pollinators. Its pest-repellent properties and delicate beauty make it a versatile addition to any garden space.
‘Bolero’ Marigold (Tagetes patula ‘Bolero’)
‘Bolero’ is a French marigold cultivar with ruffled, double, 2-inch flowers featuring gold petals tipped with burgundy, each bloom uniquely patterned. Growing to 12 inches tall, its compact size suits mixed beds or vegetable garden edges, where it deters pests like aphids. It blooms from early summer to frost in full sun, offering a dramatic, warm-toned display. ‘Bolero’ seeds are widely available, and its intense colors make it a standout companion for crops like lettuce.
‘Vanilla’ Marigold (Tagetes erecta ‘Vanilla’)
‘Vanilla’ is an African marigold breaking from tradition with creamy white, double flowers—rare for marigolds—up to 3 inches wide. Reaching 12-18 inches tall, its bushy plants bloom from summer to fall, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. This cultivar pairs well with cooler-toned flowers like petunias, offering a softer contrast to typical marigold hues. Its elegant, pastel blooms make it ideal for sophisticated garden designs or as a subtle cut flower.
‘Strawberry Blonde’ Marigold (Tagetes patula ‘Strawberry Blonde’)
‘Strawberry Blonde’ is a dwarf French marigold, growing 8-10 inches tall, with double flowers that shift colors seasonally—rich pinks and roses in cooler weather, yellows in warmth. The 2-inch blooms create a pastel sunset effect, perfect for mounding in borders or containers. Blooming from spring to frost, it prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun. Its unique color-changing trait adds dynamic charm to small spaces or mixed plantings.
‘Antigua Orange’ Marigold (Tagetes erecta x Tagetes patula ‘Antigua Orange’)
‘Antigua Orange’ is a hybrid marigold, growing 12 inches tall with bright orange, double flowers up to 3 inches wide. A prolific bloomer from late spring to frost, its sturdy, branching stems make it a garden showpiece or container star. It thrives in full sun and tolerates heat well, offering consistent, vivid color. This variety’s compact size and large blooms make it a versatile choice for both ornamental and companion planting roles.
‘Tangerine Gem’ Marigold (Tagetes tenuifolia ‘Tangerine Gem’)
‘Tangerine Gem’ is a signet marigold with small, single, copper-orange flowers, about 1 inch wide, on 8-12-inch plants. Its lacy foliage releases a citrus scent when brushed, and the edible petals are a bright garnish for salads. Blooming from summer to frost, it excels in full sun and dry soil, ideal for rock gardens or edging. Its petite size and prolific flowering attract beneficial insects, enhancing garden health and beauty.
‘Disco Orange’ Marigold (Tagetes patula ‘Disco Orange’)
‘Disco Orange’ is a French marigold cultivar, growing 10-12 inches tall with single, vibrant orange flowers about 2 inches wide. Its compact, bushy form and bright blooms make it a standout in borders, containers, or as a companion plant to repel pests like whiteflies. Blooming from early summer to frost, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, offering a cheerful, low-maintenance pop of color. The ‘Disco’ series, including this variety, is prized for its uniformity and prolific flowering.
‘Safari Yellow’ Marigold (Tagetes patula ‘Safari Yellow’)
‘Safari Yellow’ is another French marigold, reaching 10-12 inches in height with large, double, sunny yellow flowers up to 2.5 inches across. Its sturdy stems and dense foliage suit it for edging or mass plantings, where it blooms tirelessly from spring to frost. This variety excels in heat and tolerates poor soil, making it a reliable choice for tough conditions. Its bold, golden hue pairs well with contrasting flowers like salvia, and it’s a favorite for attracting pollinators.
‘Inca Orange’ Marigold (Tagetes erecta ‘Inca Orange’)
‘Inca Orange’ is an African marigold cultivar, growing 12-14 inches tall with fully double, deep orange flowers that can reach 4 inches wide. Known for its compact yet robust growth, it’s ideal for containers or garden beds, blooming from early summer to fall. This variety thrives in full sun and requires good drainage, offering a tropical flair with its intense color. ‘Inca’ hybrids are bred for uniformity and heat tolerance, making them a modern twist on the classic African marigold.
‘Red Gem’ Marigold (Tagetes tenuifolia ‘Red Gem’)
‘Red Gem’ is a signet marigold, standing 10-12 inches tall with small, single, rich red flowers—uncommon among marigolds—about 1 inch across. Its fern-like, aromatic foliage complements the delicate blooms, which are edible and add a spicy note to dishes. Blooming from summer to frost, it prefers sunny, dry spots, perfect for rock gardens or borders. This variety’s rarity and pollinator appeal make it a gem for gardeners seeking unique accents.
‘Queen Sophia’ Marigold (Tagetes patula ‘Queen Sophia’)
‘Queen Sophia’ is a French marigold, growing 10-12 inches tall, with double flowers up to 2 inches wide featuring golden-yellow petals edged in deep red. Named for its regal bicolor beauty, it blooms from late spring to frost, thriving in full sun and tolerating heat well. Its compact size suits containers or edging, and it’s effective at repelling garden pests like nematodes. This cultivar’s striking contrast adds sophistication to mixed plantings or veggie patches.
‘Kilimanjaro White’ Marigold (Tagetes erecta ‘Kilimanjaro White’)
‘Kilimanjaro White’ is an African marigold breaking from the norm with its creamy white, double flowers, about 3 inches wide, on plants 18-24 inches tall. Blooming from summer to fall, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, offering a cool-toned elegance rare in marigolds. Its taller stature makes it a focal point in beds or as a cut flower. This variety’s unique hue pairs beautifully with purples or blues, softening traditional marigold palettes.
‘Golden Gate’ Marigold (Tagetes erecta ‘Golden Gate’)
‘Golden Gate’ is a towering African marigold, reaching 30-36 inches tall with large, double, golden-yellow flowers up to 4 inches across. Its strong stems support the heavy blooms, making it ideal for back borders or as a cut flower in arrangements. Flowering from midsummer to frost, it demands full sun and fertile soil to shine. Named for its bold, bridge-like presence, this variety adds architectural height and classic marigold cheer to gardens.
‘Honeycomb’ Marigold (Tagetes patula ‘Honeycomb’)
‘Honeycomb’ is a French marigold, growing 10-12 inches tall with double, 2-inch flowers in a warm mix of red, orange, and yellow, resembling a beehive’s pattern. Its compact, bushy growth and continuous blooms from spring to frost make it perfect for borders or pots. Thriving in full sun, it attracts bees and butterflies while repelling pests. This cultivar’s intricate coloration and reliability have made it a favorite for vibrant, low-maintenance displays.
‘Desert’ Marigold (Baileya multiradiata)
‘Desert’ marigold, though not a true Tagetes (it’s in the Asteraceae family), is often grouped with marigolds for its similar look. Native to the southwestern U.S. and Mexico, this perennial grows 12-18 inches tall with single, bright yellow flowers about 1.5 inches wide atop gray-green, woolly foliage. Blooming spring through fall, it thrives in arid, sunny conditions, ideal for xeriscaping. Its drought tolerance and cheerful blooms make it a standout in desert gardens.
‘Janie Deep Orange’ Marigold (Tagetes patula ‘Janie Deep Orange’)
‘Janie Deep Orange’ is a French marigold, reaching 8-10 inches tall with double, deep orange flowers up to 2 inches wide. Part of the ‘Janie’ series, it’s bred for early and prolific blooming—from late spring to frost—making it a go-to for quick color in beds or containers. It handles heat and humidity well, thriving in full sun. Its rich, warm tone and compact habit suit small spaces or mass plantings with bold impact.
‘Sweet Cream’ Marigold (Tagetes erecta ‘Sweet Cream’)
‘Sweet Cream’ is an African marigold with soft, creamy yellow-to-white double flowers, about 3 inches across, on plants 16-20 inches tall. Blooming from summer to frost, it prefers full sun and well-drained soil, offering a gentle contrast to brighter marigolds. Its mid-height stature works in mixed borders or as a cut flower. This variety’s pastel elegance brings a calming presence to gardens, appealing to those seeking subtlety.
‘Bonanza Yellow’ Marigold (Tagetes patula ‘Bonanza Yellow’)
‘Bonanza Yellow’ is a French marigold cultivar from the ‘Bonanza’ series, growing 8-10 inches tall with double, bright yellow flowers up to 2 inches wide. Its compact, mounding habit and early blooming—from late spring to frost—make it ideal for borders, containers, or mass plantings. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, it tolerates heat and attracts pollinators while repelling pests like aphids. This variety’s cheerful, uniform blooms offer a reliable burst of sunshine in any setting.
‘Harlequin’ Marigold (Tagetes patula ‘Harlequin’)
‘Harlequin’ is an heirloom French marigold, reaching 12-15 inches tall with single, 2-inch flowers featuring alternating yellow and maroon petals in a jester-like pattern. Blooming from summer to frost, its striking bicolor design adds a whimsical touch to cottage gardens or mixed beds. It prefers full sun and tolerates poor soil, making it low-maintenance and pest-repellent. This vintage variety’s bold, playful look has kept it a favorite among gardeners for decades.
‘Gold Coin’ Marigold (Tagetes erecta ‘Gold Coin’)
‘Gold Coin’ is an African marigold, standing 24-36 inches tall with large, double, golden-yellow flowers up to 4 inches across. Its robust, upright stems support the heavy blooms, making it perfect for back borders or as a cut flower. Flowering from midsummer to frost, it thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Named for its coin-like, radiant blooms, this variety adds a statuesque, classic marigold presence to landscapes.
‘Aurora Light Yellow’ Marigold (Tagetes patula ‘Aurora Light Yellow’)
‘Aurora Light Yellow’ is a French marigold, growing 10-12 inches tall with double, pale yellow flowers about 2 inches wide. Part of the ‘Aurora’ series, it blooms from early summer to frost, excelling in full sun and tolerating heat and humidity. Its soft, pastel hue suits mixed containers or borders, offering a gentle contrast to brighter blooms. This variety’s compact growth and continuous flowering make it a subtle yet dependable choice.
‘Jubilee Orange’ Marigold (Tagetes erecta ‘Jubilee Orange’)
‘Jubilee Orange’ is an African marigold cultivar, reaching 18-24 inches tall with double, vibrant orange flowers up to 3.5 inches across. Its bushy form and strong stems make it a standout in beds or as a cut flower, blooming from summer to fall in full sun. Bred for heat tolerance and uniformity, it’s a celebratory addition to gardens needing bold, warm tones. This variety’s festive color and reliability honor its jubilant name.
‘Paprika’ Marigold (Tagetes tenuifolia ‘Paprika’)
‘Paprika’ is a signet marigold, growing 10-12 inches tall with small, single, reddish-orange flowers about 1 inch wide, resembling the spice it’s named for. Its lacy, aromatic foliage enhances its appeal, and the edible blooms add a peppery zest to salads. Blooming from summer to frost, it thrives in sunny, dry conditions, ideal for edging or rock gardens. This variety’s warm hue and delicate charm attract pollinators while repelling pests.
‘Zenith Red’ Marigold (Tagetes erecta x Tagetes patula ‘Zenith Red’)
‘Zenith Red’ is a triploid hybrid marigold, growing 12-15 inches tall with double, deep red flowers up to 3 inches wide—a rare color for marigolds. Its sterile nature ensures continuous blooming from late spring to frost, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. Perfect for containers or beds, it combines the size of African marigolds with the compactness of French ones. This variety’s intense, velvety red adds a dramatic flair to any garden.
‘Cape Marigold’ (Dimorphotheca sinuata)
‘Cape Marigold,’ though not a true Tagetes (it’s in the Asteraceae family), is often included with marigolds for its similar look. Native to South Africa, this annual grows 12-18 inches tall with single, daisy-like flowers in orange, yellow, or white, about 2 inches wide. Blooming spring to summer, it prefers full sun and sandy soil, making it a star in dry, Mediterranean-style gardens. Its vibrant blooms close at night, adding a dynamic touch to landscapes.
‘Durango Red’ Marigold (Tagetes patula ‘Durango Red’)
‘Durango Red’ is a French marigold from the ‘Durango’ series, reaching 10-12 inches tall with double, rich red flowers up to 2.5 inches across. Blooming from early summer to frost, its compact, branching habit suits borders or pots, thriving in full sun. This variety’s deep, uncommon color stands out in mixed plantings and repels pests effectively. Its durability and vivid hue make it a bold, reliable choice for gardeners.
‘Discovery Yellow’ Marigold (Tagetes erecta ‘Discovery Yellow’)
‘Discovery Yellow’ is an African marigold, growing 10-12 inches tall with double, bright yellow flowers about 3 inches wide. Its dwarf stature—a departure from taller African types—makes it perfect for containers or front borders, blooming from summer to frost in full sun. Bred for compactness and heat tolerance, it offers a big impact in small spaces. This variety’s sunny disposition and tidy growth appeal to modern gardeners.
‘Fireball’ Marigold (Tagetes patula ‘Fireball’)
‘Fireball’ is a French marigold, reaching 10-12 inches tall with double, fiery red-orange flowers up to 2 inches wide, living up to its explosive name. Blooming from late spring to frost, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, ideal for beds or as a pest-repellent companion. Its intense, warm tones ignite mixed plantings, attracting butterflies and bees. This variety’s vigor and bold color make it a standout in any garden design.
‘Marsh Marigold’ (Caltha palustris)
‘Marsh Marigold,’ not a Tagetes but a member of the Ranunculaceae family, is included for its common name and marigold-like blooms. Native to wetlands in North America and Europe, this perennial grows 12-18 inches tall with single, glossy yellow flowers about 1.5 inches wide. Blooming in spring, it loves moist, shady spots, contrasting with the sun-loving Tagetes. Its cheerful blooms brighten boggy areas, though it’s toxic if ingested raw.
‘Tashkent’ Marigold (Tagetes erecta ‘Tashkent’)
‘Tashkent’ is an African marigold, growing 24-30 inches tall with large, double, golden-orange flowers up to 4 inches across. Named after the Uzbek capital, it blooms from midsummer to frost, thriving in full sun and fertile soil. Its height and hefty blooms make it a striking backdrop in beds or a vibrant cut flower. This variety’s robust growth and warm, glowing color evoke the sunny landscapes of Central Asia.