Species
Tagetes erectaAfrican Marigold6 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
A compact annual that produces large, white blooms on upright stems, often used in garden borders.
This cultivar is unique for its pure white petals and is particularly popular for creating a clean and bright garden aesthetic.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
24 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
Mexico
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds 1/4 inch deep into well-draining soil in spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once established.
- Provide full sun for optimal growth.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Pro Tip
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds, especially in hot climates.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead regularly to promote more blooms
- Fertilize monthly during peak growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t plant in dense shade for best flowering
- Refrain from using high nitrogen fertilizers that encourage foliage over flowers
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| 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
African Marigold 'White Swan' questions
What zones can African Marigold 'White Swan' grow in?
African Marigold 'White Swan' is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. 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 'White Swan' deer resistant?
Yes — African Marigold 'White Swan' is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does African Marigold 'White Swan' bloom?
African Marigold 'White Swan' typically blooms in mid-summer 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 'White Swan' need full sun?
African Marigold 'White Swan' does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is African Marigold 'White Swan' drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), African Marigold 'White Swan' 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'
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'
Hot Sun African Marigold
Tagetes erecta 'Hot Sun'
African Marigold 'Harlequin'
Tagetes erecta 'Harlequin'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow African Marigold 'White Swan' 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.