perennialN. America Native

Mexican Marigold

Tagetes lemmonii

The Story

Plant Bio

A vigorous perennial with aromatic leaves and vibrant yellow flowers.

Known for its resilience in hot conditions and ability to attract beneficial insects.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides bright yellow flowers that attract pollinators and add cheerful color to gardens.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for xeriscaping.

Supports beneficial insects and pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial in warm climates

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early summer – Late summer

In flower about 3 months of the year

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 for 6 weeks.
Mist cuttings to maintain humidity during root development.
Transplant seedlings once they have 2-3 sets of true leaves, after 4-6 weeks.
Space plants 12-18 inches apart to ensure good air circulation.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use a sunny location with well-draining soil for best growth and flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently, especially during dry spells 🌱
Prune dead or faded flowers to encourage rebloom
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases

Don't

Overwater, which can lead to root rot ❌
Plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
Neglect pruning, which can reduce flowering
Use chemical pesticides unnecessarily

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Plant
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Aromatic border with silvery foliageDrought-tolerant flower bed accent

Companion Plants

SalviaLavender Rosemary Yarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mexican Marigold questions

What zones can Mexican Marigold grow in?

Mexican Marigold is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Mexican Marigold deer resistant?

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

When does Mexican Marigold bloom?

Mexican Marigold typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Mexican Marigold need full sun?

Mexican Marigold does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Mexican Marigold drought tolerant?

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