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Description
Tagetes Erecta, commonly known as the African marigold, is a species of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. It is native to Mexico and Central America but is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in other parts of the world. The plant is known for its showy, yellow to orange-colored flowers that bloom in clusters on top of leafy stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Tagetes |
Appearance
The African marigold can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Its leaves are dark green, pinnate, and deeply lobed. The flowers are double or semi-double, with a diameter of up to 4 inches. They are usually yellow or orange in color, but cultivars with red or bi-colored flowers are also available. The plant blooms from mid-summer to fall.
Care Guide
Tagetes Erecta is an easy-to-grow plant that requires moderate care. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: The African marigold is an annual plant that grows in USDA zones 2-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The African marigold is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Control them by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny arachnids can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. Control them by spraying the plant with water or insecticidal soap.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and flowers. Control it by removing infected leaves and spraying the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
The African marigold is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in open, sunny areas. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens, parks, and public spaces. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as wounds, fever, and digestive problems.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Tagetes Erecta tolerate frost?
A: No, the African marigold cannot tolerate frost. It is an annual plant that dies at the first frost.
Q: What is the best time to plant Tagetes Erecta?
A: The best time to plant the African marigold is in the spring, after the last frost date in your area.
Q: Can Tagetes Erecta be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the African marigold can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How long does it take for Tagetes Erecta to bloom?
A: The African marigold blooms from mid-summer to fall, usually taking 70-100 days from planting to bloom.
Related Plants
- Tagetes Patula
- Tagetes Tenuifolia
- Tagetes Lucida
- Tagetes Minuta
References
- Wikipedia contributors. (2021, January 12). Tagetes erecta. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 03:05, February 2, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Tagetes_erecta&oldid=999580810
- Tagetes erecta – African Marigold. (n.d.). Retrieved February 2, 2021, from https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/tagetes-erecta-african-marigold
- Tagetes Erecta. (n.d.). Retrieved February 2, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277195&isprofile=1&basic=tagetes%20erecta
