Tagetes Erecta
Tagetes erecta
Tagetes erecta is a bold, sun-loving annual native to Mexico and Guatemala, treasured across the world for its large, densely petalled blooms in vivid shades of gold, yellow, and orange. It symbolizes warmth, courage, remembrance, and the sun, and plays a central role in Dia de los Muertos celebrations and Hindu worship.
Asteraceae (Daisy family)
Summer through autumn frost (June to October); blooms from seed within 8 weeks
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: calendulas and tithonias also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Few flowers are woven as deeply into world culture as the African marigold. Despite its name, it is entirely native to Mexico and Central America, where the Aztecs cultivated it for ceremonial and medicinal use for centuries before European contact. In Mexico it is the quintessential flower of Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, where its vivid golden blooms and powerful scent are believed to guide the spirits of the deceased back to the world of the living. Paths of marigold petals are laid from gravesites to home altars to help souls find their way. In Hindu tradition, marigold garlands called haar are essential offerings at temples and festivals, particularly during Diwali and weddings, where they symbolize auspiciousness, devotion, and the warmth of the sun. In Victorian floriography, marigolds represented grief and cruelty but also steadfast endurance. The flowers reached Europe in the 16th century following the Spanish conquest of Mexico and were swiftly adopted across Mediterranean and South Asian gardening traditions. The species name erecta means upright, reflecting the plant's bold, vertical habit.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun; at least 6 hours of direct sun daily for maximum bloom; tolerates light afternoon shade in hot climates
Water
Moderate; prefers evenly moist soil but tolerates short dry spells once established; avoid waterlogging which promotes rot in flower heads
Soil
Well-drained, Average to moderately fertile, Tolerates clay and dry soils, Neutral to slightly acidic (pH 6.0-7.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or sow directly outdoors after all frost risk has passed
Deadhead spent flowers promptly as the heavy heads can snap stems if left to accumulate
Pinch young plants to encourage bushier growth and more flower stems
Tall varieties may need staking in exposed or windy positions
Avoid overwatering and ensure good air circulation to prevent botrytis and powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Beds, borders, and mass plantings for bold seasonal color
- Cut flower and market garden production; long vase life
- Containers and large pots as summer focal plants
- Festival and ceremonial garland making (especially Dia de los Muertos and Hindu puja)
- Companion planting in vegetable gardens to deter nematodes and some pests
Traditional Uses
- Flowers contain high concentrations of lutein and zeaxanthin carotenoids, widely extracted commercially for use as natural food colorants for egg yolks and poultry skin, and as dietary supplements for eye health
- In Mexican and Central American folk medicine, marigold flower tea has been used as an anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic remedy; leaves and stems have mild insect-repellent properties
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tagetes Erecta
What does the African marigold symbolize?
Tagetes erecta symbolizes warmth, remembrance, and devotion. In Mexican culture it is the flower of Dia de los Muertos, used to guide spirits home. In Hindu tradition it represents auspiciousness and sacred solar energy. Across many cultures it carries meanings of courage, grief, and enduring love.
Why are marigolds used on Dia de los Muertos?
African marigolds are the traditional flower of Dia de los Muertos in Mexico because their vivid golden color and intense fragrance are believed to attract the souls of the deceased and guide them along the path between the spirit world and the living. Petals are scattered from graves to home altars on November 1 and 2 each year.
Are African marigolds toxic to pets?
Yes, Tagetes erecta is considered mildly toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset including drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. The plant sap can also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Keep pets away from marigold plantings and wear gloves when handling.
Do African marigolds repel pests?
Yes, African marigolds have well-documented pest-deterrent properties. Their roots produce alpha-terthienyl, a compound that suppresses root-knot nematodes in soil. The strongly scented foliage also deters aphids, whiteflies, and some beetles, making them popular companion plants in vegetable gardens.
How do I get African marigolds to bloom more?
Deadhead spent blooms regularly to remove the seed source and redirect the plant's energy into producing new flowers. Pinching young plants encourages branching and more bloom stems. Ensure full sun and avoid excess nitrogen fertilizer, which promotes lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Calendula
Calendula officinalis
Calendulas are bright, cheerful flowers with healing properties. They symbolize comfort, healing, and protection, making them beloved in herb and cottage gardens.
Tithonia
Tithonia diversifolia (and T. rotundifolia)
Tithonia is a vibrant annual flower with bright orange or red daisy-like blooms. Native to Mexico and Central America, it symbolizes adoration, loyalty, and the warm energy of the sun.
Helichrysum Bracteatum
Helichrysum bracteatum (syn. Xerochrysum bracteatum)
Helichrysum bracteatum, now correctly known as Xerochrysum bracteatum, is an Australian native annual celebrated worldwide for its vivid, papery, daisy-like blooms that retain their brilliant color and crisp form when dried. It symbolizes eternity, remembrance, and the preservation of beauty, and is one of the most important commercial dried flower crops globally.