Also known as: Flower of the dead, Mexican marigold
African marigold is a common garden plant with bright orange or red flowers. Its use in decorative and ceremonial gardens dates back to ancient Aztec civilizations. Not only does african marigold add bright colors, but it is also known to repel insects, rabbits, and deer thanks to its toxic latex.
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Annual, Perennial, Biennial
Lifespan
Herb
Plant Type
Summer, Fall
Bloom Time
Fall
Harvest Time
20 cm to 1.5 m
Plant Height
10 cm to 60 cm
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
5 cm to 10 cm
Flower Size
Black
Fruit Color
Yellow, Orange, White, Gold, Red, Burgundy
Flower Color
Green, White, Yellow, Orange
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Summer, Fall
Growth Season
Moderate
Growth Rate
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Distribution
Culture
Cultivars
Quickly Identify
Care Guide
FAQs
Common Diseases
Images of African marigold
Distribution of African marigold
Distribution Map
African marigold is native to Mexico and Guatemala, where it grows in many different types of forests including at altitude. It has been introduced both as an ornamental and as a commercial crop all over North and South America, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, Europe and Oceania. It is considered invasive in Spain, China, New Zealand and some Pacific islands.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Pine-oak forest zone, garden
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Northern
Sorthern
Flowering
Fruiting
Culture
Environmental Protection Value
It can purify air and has strong resistance to and absorption of hydrogen fluoride, sulfur dioxide and other gases.
Garden Use
African marigold is a herbaceous annual commonly found in gardens. It is prized for its large, attractive, orange and bronze-colored blooms in a unique pom-pom form. Its height and shape make it suitable for edging or bedding. African marigold is good for Pollinator gardens. Suggested companion plants include blue Cardinal Flowers or Purple Fountain Grass to make a strong color contrast.
Symbolism
Spirituality, honoring the dead, health, love, grief, mourning
Interesting Facts
About 500 years ago, a Spanish officer went to Mexico and stumbled across a marigold flower in the countryside. He thought they were cute, so he took the seeds back to Europe for cultivation. It was very popular for its beautiful golden flowers, and it was used for the worship of the Virgin Mary.
Name Story
Aztec marigold: This plant was treated as a sacred being by the Aztec people and it was used to decorate temples. Sadly, it also witnessed the history of the Aztec people being slaughtered. Hence, it was called Aztec marigold in memory of the innocent Aztec people that were killed.
Marigold: Mexicans use it to decorate the graves of their deceased loved ones, so it's also called the flower of the dead.
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Cultivars
There are several recognized cultivars of African marigold, including the following common varieties :
Water:
African marigold thrives in tropical climates, requiring regular moisture and high humidity. Watering twice a week mimics its natural environment, crucial for vibrant blooms. Maintaining evenly moist soil during the growing season supports its lush growth and colorful display while preventing waterlogging.
Fertilize:
To enhance flowering in african marigold, apply high phosphorus fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Water african marigold post-application and avoid leaf contact to prevent burn. Reduce fertilizer frequency in dormant season and adjust quantities based on size and soil fertility.
Pruning:
African marigold boasts vibrant blooms and benefits from timely pruning in early to late spring. Cutting back dead stems encourages bushier growth, while pinching young plants promotes compactness. Removing faded blooms redirects energy, reduces disease risk, and enhances airflow, using sterilized tools for optimal results.
Propagation:
African marigold is grown for vibrant flowers. Propagation is best achieved through cuttings from healthy plants, using rooting hormone in a well-draining medium. Maintain moisture and warmth for root growth, while monitoring for pests and diseases during the early stages.
Repotting:
Transplant seedlings of african marigold into pots when they develop 2-3 leaves for optimal growth. Ensuring proper pot size and soil conditions will support their healthy development.
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