Botanical Name: Tagetes tenuifolia
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Common Name: Signet Marigold  
Plant photo of: Tagetes tenuifolia
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Water Saving Tip:

Check the soil's moisture level before watering.

You can reduce your water use 20-50% by regularly checking the soil before watering.

  • Anatomy

  • Culture

  • Design

Plant Type

Annual, Herb

 

Height Range

Under 1'

 

Flower Color

Orange, Yellow

 

Flower Season

Summer, Fall

 

Leaf Color

Dark Green

 

Bark Color

n/a

 

Fruit Color

n/a

 

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full

 

Water

Low, Medium

 

Growth Rate

Moderate

 

Soil Type

Sandy, Loam

 

Soil Condition

Average, Poor, Well-drained, Dry

 

Soil pH

Neutral

 

Adverse Factors

Attracts Bees

Design Styles

English Cottage, Mediterranean, Ranch, Spanish

 

Accenting Features

Fragrance, Unusual Foliage

 

Seasonal Interest

Summer, Fall

 

Location Uses

Perennial Border, Patio, Raised Planter

 

Special Uses

Container, Cut Flowers

 

Attracts Wildlife

Butterflies

Information by: Stephanie Duer
Photographer:
  • Description

  • Notes

All right, so we said there were too many marigolds to name, but we are making an exception. This group of marigolds (sometimes referred to as the Gem Series) have a compact habit (about 12 to 14 inches tall and slightly less wide), petite flowers that don't need deadheading, and foliage that has a bright, lemony scent. They are perfect in herb and vegetable gardens, and, drum roll...the flowers are edible, and so make a fabulous garnish in salads and drinks.
As with other marigolds, plant them in nearly any soil that is well drained. They prefer life a bit on the leaner side, so don't over water, over fertilize, or pot them up in over rich soil. You can deadhead, though it generally isn't needed, but think of it as harvesting, instead. Grow in full sun. Available as plants or seeds. Not as easy to find as other marigolds, but worth the effort.