Marigolds are one of the most popular annual flowers, easily grown from seed or transplant, and when given the right conditions will overflow with bright blossoms that fill the garden with cheerful color. Marigolds are equally suitable for containers, as they are in the garden, and are even grown as a long-lasting cut flower, with a clean, crisp scent.
Tagetes are a genus of the sunflower family, native to North and South America, and vary in size from low edging plants averaging 5-inches high, to as tall as 3-foot high. Blooms range in mostly solid colors of orange, golden yellow, and white, sometimes with decorative darker highlights along petals edge. While most Marigolds are grown as annuals, there are some perennial species that will survive in warmer climates.
With over 50 species of marigold available, three dominate the bedding flower market:
- The tallest are African marigolds (T. erecta) which grow in shades of creamy white, yellow and orange, reaching, with a wide spreading habit.
- French marigolds (T. patula), are the most compact variety, most often used in front of the border or containers.
- The Signet marigolds, (T. tenuifolia) are also good for rock gardens and edging plants, with unusual single blossoms that are prized for garnishing dishes.