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Mexican Marigold

Tagetes erecta

Mexican Marigolds are bright, cheerful flowers that come in shades of orange and yellow. They are often used in gardens to attract butterflies and bees, making them a favorite for many gardeners.

Habitat: Gardens

Appearance

The Mexican Marigold is easily recognized by its large, globe-shaped flowers, often a brilliant yellow or orange. These showy blooms can appear ruffled and boast many petals, making them stand out from smaller marigold varieties.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderAsteralesFamilyAsteraceaeGenusTagetes
Mexican Marigold
aromatic trait badgeflowering trait badgeornamental trait badgesummer_blooming trait badge
Mexican Marigold

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Ancient Aztecs used this marigold for medicinal purposes, including skin remedies.

In Mexico, it's called 'cempasúchil' and traditionally guides spirits during Día de los Muertos!

Its vibrant petals are used to make natural dyes for food, especially poultry feed, and fabrics!

Some gardeners plant marigolds near vegetables to help deter pests naturally!

Special abilities

Ability

Nematode Nuisance

Mexican Marigold can release special chemicals from its roots that act like a shield, protecting nearby plants from harmful soil worms.

Ability

Pollinator Beacon

Mexican Marigold has brightly colored, nectar-rich flowers that act like a beacon, guiding bees and butterflies to help spread its pollen.

Ability

Drought Defender

Mexican Marigold has a robust root system that helps it find water, allowing it to stay vibrant even during dry spells.

Measurements & details

Height
30-100 cm
Spread
30-45 cm
Flower Size
5-10 cm
Bloom Season
Summer to fall
Edible
Yes
Toxicity
Mild
Lifecycle
Annual
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

honey bee

Apis mellifera

Collects nectar and pollen.

pollinates

Monarch butterfly

Danaus plexippus

Visits flowers for nectar.

eaten by

beet armyworm

Spodoptera exigua

Caterpillars feed on leaves.

Traits

Also known as

Aztec Marigold

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always check with an adult before picking flowers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Mexican Marigold?

30-100 cm

How wide does Mexican Marigold spread?

30-45 cm

How big are the flowers on Mexican Marigold?

5-10 cm

When does Mexican Marigold bloom?

Summer to fall

Is Mexican Marigold edible?

Yes

Is Mexican Marigold toxic?

Mild

What is Mexican Marigold's lifecycle?

Annual

How is Mexican Marigold pollinated?

Insect

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