Desert Marigold
Baileya multiradiata Harv. & A. Gray
Desert marigold produces cheerful golden-yellow daisy-like flowers above silvery woolly foliage throughout the hot summer. Native to southwestern deserts, these resilient blooms symbolize desert tenacity, solar brightness, endurance, and the ability to thrive in harsh conditions.
Asteraceae (Sunflower family)
March through November, nearly year-round with occasional water
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: gaillardias and lantanas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Desert marigold represents the remarkable ability to not just survive but flourish in the harshest desert conditions. The genus name Baileya honors Jacob Whitman Bailey (1811-1857), a pioneering American scientist who was one of the first to use microscopes for investigative work. The species name "multiradiata" means "many-rayed," referring to the abundant ray florets (50-60 per flower). Dense patches create stunning ribbons of solid yellow along desert roadsides for miles. The common name "Mary's Gold" (marigold) honors the Virgin Mary. This cheerful flower symbolizes the desert's vibrant spirit and teaches us that beauty thrives even in seemingly impossible conditions.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun; cannot grow in shade, thrives in extreme heat
Water
Very low; extremely drought-tolerant once established, blooms more with occasional watering
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Gravelly, Poor, Rocky, Tolerates various pH
Expert Growing Tips
Hardy in zones 7-10
Biennial or short-lived perennial (2-3 years)
Self-sows readily to form new stands
Flowers turn papery as they age (hence "paper daisy")
Susceptible to crown rot if soil is too wet
Thrives in poor, dry soils and extreme heat
Plant seeds in fall for spring bloom, or spring in cold areas
Seedlings require cold dormancy period to set buds
Prune back in fall or winter to stimulate new growth
Caution: Toxic to sheep and goats if eaten in large quantities
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Xeriscape and desert gardens
- Rock gardens and dry landscapes
- Pollinator and native plant gardens
- Erosion control on slopes
- Roadside beautification
- Naturalized wildflower meadows
Traditional Uses
- Used by Jemez people mixed with clay for adobe making
- Keres people rubbed plant under arms as deodorant
- Not recommended for medicinal use due to toxicity
- Contains hymenoxon and sesquiterpene lactones toxic to livestock
- Important pollinator plant attracting native bees, butterflies, and insects
- Seeds eaten by birds like black-throated sparrow and small mammals
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Desert Marigold
is desert marigold drought tolerant
Yes, desert marigold is extremely drought-tolerant once established. It thrives in poor, dry soils and extreme heat, though occasional watering extends the blooming period.
why is it called paper daisy
Desert marigold petals turn pale and papery as they age, taking on a delicate, tissue-paper appearance while remaining on the plant for extended periods.
is desert marigold toxic
Yes, desert marigold is toxic to sheep and goats if consumed in large quantities, containing hymenoxon and sesquiterpene lactones that can cause liver damage.
how long does desert marigold bloom
Desert marigold blooms intermittently from March through November, and can bloom nearly year-round with occasional watering in favorable conditions.
will desert marigold reseed itself
Yes, desert marigold readily self-sows in favorable conditions, forming new stands. The seedlings require a period of cold dormancy to set flower buds.
is desert marigold good for pollinators
Yes, desert marigold is excellent for pollinators, especially native bees, butterflies, and other insects. It's recognized by pollination ecologists as attracting large numbers of native bees.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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