As summer approaches, our gardens eagerly await a burst of color and vitality. What better way to infuse your flower garden and garden beds with brilliance than by embracing the radiant beauty of marigold flowers? With their wide range of varieties and popularity as excellent bedding plants, marigolds are the go-to choice for many garden enthusiasts seeking to create a stunning floral display. In this blog, we will explore popular flower varieties of marigolds.
African Marigold
Botanical name: Tagetes erecta
The African marigold plant is a tall and robust variety that can reach heights of up to three feet. It is characterized by large, double flowers in shades of yellow, orange flowers, and deep gold. These marigolds make a stunning display in borders, flower beds, and cut flowers due to their long, sturdy stems. African marigolds are also known for their strong scent, which acts as a natural deterrent for insects, making them popular companion plants in vegetable gardens.
French Marigold
Botanical name: Tagetes patula
The French marigold is a compact and bushy plant that grows to a height of about one foot. They produce an abundance of small to medium-sized flowers with a wide range of color variations, including vibrant oranges, yellows, and reds. The beautiful flowers of French marigolds are often single or semi-double blooms with delicate, lacy foliage that adds an elegant touch to any garden. They are excellent choices for edging, container gardening, and companion plants to repel nematodes.
Signet Marigold
Botanical name: Tagetes tenuifolia
The signet marigold, also known as the gem marigold, is a petite variety that reaches a height of approximately 8-12 inches. These marigolds are admired for their finely divided foliage and small, single flowers that come in shades of gold, orange, and lemon. What makes them truly special is their edible nature, as the flowers possess a tangy, citrus-like flavor. Signet marigolds are often used as garnishes in salads, herb butter, and other culinary delights.
Mexican Marigold
Botanical name: Tagetes lucida
The Mexican marigold, or Mexican tarragon, is a perennial marigold species that is native to Central and South America. It stands out from other marigold types with its fern-like leaves and clusters of small, bright yellow flowers. Besides its ornamental value, the Mexican marigold is highly valued for its culinary and medicinal uses. The leaves of this marigold are used as a tarragon substitute in cooking, while its essential oils are believed to have various health benefits.
Calendula Marigold
Botanical name: Calendula officinalis
Although not a true marigold, the calendula is commonly referred to as the pot marigold due to its similar appearance. Calendula marigolds are known for their radiant, daisy-like blooms in shades of yellow, orange, and cream. They have a long history of medicinal and herbal uses, including wound healing, skin soothing properties, and culinary applications. Calendula flowers are often used in teas, salves, and skin care products due to their gentle and calming properties.
Next step
Gardener services
Landscaping services
Online nursery
Organic pesticides and fertilizers
Extra reading
Winter Plants That Flower in Bangalore
Flowers that Thrive in Poor Soil
Winter Indoor Flowering Plants
Happy Gardening!
Dr. Vandana K.