Tagetes erecta SEEDS

Tagetes erecta seeds grow into the African marigold or Aztec marigold a robust annual herb native to the seasonally dry tropical biome of Mexico and Central America, now one of the most widely cultivated ornamental annuals worldwide. Described by Linnaeus (1753). The epithet erecta means ‘upright’. Despite the common name, this species is entirely native to Mexico ‘African’ marigold is a misnomer, arising because the plant reached Europe via Africa from the Americas. Produces large (to 12 cm), fully double, pompon-like flowers in vivid golden-yellow, orange, lemon and white. One of the most popular bedding plants in the world. Flowers edible petals used as saffron substitute and food colouring. Medicinal uses. Repels many garden pests. Family Asteraceae.

Full sun; well-drained, moderately fertile soils; warm subtropical to tropical conditions; annual. World’s most popular annual ornamental. Edible flowers; pest repellent.

• ‘Erecta’ = upright; Linnaeus (1753); African marigold (misnomer native Mexico); large double pompons
• Edible petals (saffron substitute, food colouring); pest repellent; one of most popular bedding plants
• Mexico and Central America seasonally dry tropical biome; annual; naturalised worldwide
• Genus Tagetes ~56 species; Family Asteraceae
• Full sun; well-drained soils; warm tropical; annual; edible; pest repellent; Family Asteraceae

Tagetes erecta is the African marigold a Mexican annual that became one of the world’s most widely grown bedding plants, its golden-orange pompons brightening gardens on every continent while its edible petals serve as a saffron substitute and its aromatic foliage repels a remarkable range of garden pests.

IMPORTANT: Pictures show the adult plant, which is not for sale. The offer is only for seeds.