Species
Tagetes erectaAfrican Marigold6 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Vibrant flowers with a bushy, upright habit.
Known for its large, double blooms and heat tolerance.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
Mexico and Central America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds 1/4 inch deep into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once established.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth.
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for best flowering performance.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead flowers regularly for prolonged bloom
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t plant in shady areas; it needs full sun
- Refrain from heavy fertilization late in the season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Hot Sun African Marigold questions
What zones can Hot Sun African Marigold grow in?
Hot Sun African Marigold is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Hot Sun African Marigold deer resistant?
Yes — Hot Sun African Marigold is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Hot Sun African Marigold bloom?
Hot Sun African Marigold typically blooms in summer to frost through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Hot Sun African Marigold need full sun?
Hot Sun African Marigold does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Hot Sun African Marigold drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Hot Sun African Marigold handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Tagetes to compare
Villandry African Marigold
Tagetes erecta 'Villandry'
African Marigold 'White Swan'
Tagetes erecta 'White Swan'
Mexican Marigold
Tagetes lemmonii
Dwarf African Marigold
Tagetes erecta 'Dwarf Jaguar'
Day of the Dead Orange African Marigold
Tagetes erecta 'Day of the Dead Orange'
African Marigold 'Harlequin'
Tagetes erecta 'Harlequin'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Hot Sun African Marigold with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.