Species
Tagetes erectaAfrican Marigold6 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Dwarf Jaguar is a compact marigold known for its vibrant gold flowers. It is an excellent choice for borders and container gardens.
This cultivar features unique variegated foliage and is more tolerant of drought compared to other marigold cultivars.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
12 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
Mexico
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain moisture and promote root development.
- Water regularly, keeping soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during growing season.
- Prune dead or faded flowers to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
- Divide plants in early spring or fall to propagate and rejuvenate.
Pro Tip
Use organic compost to enrich soil and promote vigorous flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to shape and remove dead growth ✂️
- Apply organic fertilizer monthly for healthy blooms
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize late in the season to prevent leggy growth
- Refrain from overcrowding to ensure good air circulation
- Do not forget to deadhead spent flowers for continuous bloom
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Dwarf African Marigold questions
What zones can Dwarf African Marigold grow in?
Dwarf African Marigold is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Dwarf African Marigold deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Dwarf African Marigold, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Dwarf African Marigold bloom?
Dwarf 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 Dwarf African Marigold need full sun?
Dwarf African Marigold does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Dwarf African Marigold drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Dwarf 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
Villandry African Marigold
Tagetes erecta 'Villandry'
African Marigold 'White Swan'
Tagetes erecta 'White Swan'
Mexican Marigold
Tagetes lemmonii
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
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Dwarf 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.