annual

African Marigold

Tagetes erecta 'Hot Sun'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Mexico and Central America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Vibrant flowers with a bushy, upright habit. Known for its large, double blooms and heat tolerance.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid, cheerful yellow flowers add bright color to sunny gardens and containers.

Resistant to drought, making it ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.

Attracts beneficial insects like pollinators and pest predators.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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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

Bright yellow border for sunny bedsVivid container plant for patiosColorful mass planting in flower beds

Companion Plants

Marigolds Petunias Sweet Alyssum Zinnias Cosmos

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

African Marigold questions

What zones can African Marigold grow in?

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 African Marigold deer resistant?

Yes — African Marigold is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does African Marigold bloom?

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 African Marigold need full sun?

African Marigold does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is African Marigold drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), African Marigold handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.