Species

Tagetes erectaAfrican Marigold

6 other cultivars

annualN. America Native

Day of the Dead Orange African Marigold

Tagetes erecta 'Day of the Dead Orange'

The Story

Plant Bio

Tall annual with bright orange blooms, often associated with celebrations.

Specifically cultivated for Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festivities.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright, cheerful blooms add vibrant color to gardens and containers, attracting pollinators and enhancing aesthetic appeal.

Resistant to drought, ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.

Provides nectar for butterflies and bees, supporting local pollinator populations.

SpeciesTagetes erectaAfrican Marigold

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

33 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds ¼ inch deep in well-draining soil in spring.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist.
Provide full sun for optimal growth and vibrant blooms.
Thin seedlings to 8-12 inches apart once established.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
Deadhead flowers to promote more blooms
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t let soil dry out completely
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Harvest
Pest Check
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright orange border for summer accentsVivid container display for patiosPollen-rich flower for pollinator gardens

Companion Plants

Marigolds Basil Petunias SalviaZinnias

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Day of the Dead Orange African Marigold questions

What zones can Day of the Dead Orange African Marigold grow in?

Day of the Dead Orange African Marigold is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Day of the Dead Orange African Marigold deer resistant?

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

When does Day of the Dead Orange African Marigold bloom?

Day of the Dead Orange African Marigold typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Day of the Dead Orange African Marigold need full sun?

Day of the Dead Orange African Marigold does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Day of the Dead Orange African Marigold drought tolerant?

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