African Marigold
Tagetes erecta 'Villandry'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
Mexico
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Tagetes erecta, commonly known as African marigold, is appreciated for its vibrant flowers and can grow as an annual in many regions. The 'Villandry' cultivar is notable for its particularly large, showy flowers and robust growth, making it a popular choice for both ornamental and edible gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain moisture and encourage root growth.
- Transplant seedlings when they are 3 inches tall into full sun.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced organic fertilizer for healthy blooms.
- Prune dead flowers regularly to promote continuous flowering.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure full sun exposure for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Apply organic fertilizer monthly during active growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't forget to prune back leggy growth
- Avoid planting in heavy clay soil without amendments
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 questions
What zones can African Marigold grow in?
African Marigold 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 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 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 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.
More Tagetes to compare
African Marigold 'White Swan'
Tagetes erecta 'White Swan'
Dwarf African Marigold
Tagetes erecta 'Dwarf Jaguar'
Mexican Marigold
Tagetes lemmonii
African Marigold
Tagetes erecta 'Day of the Dead Orange'
African Marigold
Tagetes erecta 'Hot Sun'
African Marigold 'Harlequin'
Tagetes erecta 'Harlequin'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow 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.
