Contents
Description
Tagetes Erecta Tiger Eyes is a beautiful cultivar of the popular Tagetes Erecta, also known as African marigold. This annual plant is native to Mexico, but it is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world. It is loved for its gorgeous, large, bright yellow flowers with striking red centers. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall, and they attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden. Tagetes Erecta Tiger Eyes is easy to grow and care for, making it a popular choice among gardeners.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Tagetes |
| Species | Erecta |
| Cultivar | Tiger Eyes |
Appearance
Tagetes Erecta Tiger Eyes can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. It has dark green, fern-like foliage that is aromatic when crushed. The flowers are large and showy, measuring about 2-3 inches in diameter. They have bright yellow petals with reddish-orange centers, giving them a tiger-like appearance. The flowers are single or double, depending on the cultivar. The plant blooms profusely in the summer and fall, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden.
Care Guide
Tagetes Erecta Tiger Eyes is easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:
Water: Water your plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. African marigolds don’t like to be too wet or too dry, so make sure the soil is well-draining.
Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. This will help promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.
Soil: African marigolds prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but they don’t like to be too wet or too dry.
Sunlight: Tagetes Erecta Tiger Eyes thrives in full sun, meaning it needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Make sure to plant it in a spot that gets plenty of sunshine.
Hardiness Zones: African marigolds are hardy in USDA Zones 9-11, meaning they can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F. If you live in a colder climate, you can grow them as annuals or in containers that can be moved indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tagetes Erecta Tiger Eyes is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can still be affected by some common problems. Here are some of them:
Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars: These larvae of butterflies and moths can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. They can be controlled with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or insecticidal soap.
Fungal diseases: African marigolds can be affected by powdery mildew, gray mold, and other fungal diseases. These can be prevented by keeping the foliage dry and well-ventilated, and by using fungicides if necessary.
Habitat
Tagetes Erecta Tiger Eyes is native to Mexico, but it is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world as an ornamental plant. It grows best in warm, sunny locations with well-draining soil. It is often used in mass plantings, borders, and containers, and it is a popular choice for cut flower arrangements.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Tagetes Erecta Tiger Eyes in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow this plant in a container as long as it has good drainage and is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Tagetes Erecta Tiger Eyes?
A: You should fertilize your plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I grow Tagetes Erecta Tiger Eyes in a shady location?
A: No, this plant needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.
Q: How can I prevent pests and diseases on my Tagetes Erecta Tiger Eyes?
A: You can prevent pests and diseases by keeping the foliage dry and well-ventilated, and by using insecticides and fungicides if necessary.
Related Plants
Here are some other cultivars of Tagetes Erecta:
- Crackerjack
- Discovery Orange
- Golden Guardian
- Lemon Drop
- Orange Giant
References
- “Tagetes erecta.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287356
- “African Marigold: Tagetes erecta.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp305
- “Tagetes erecta ‘Tiger Eyes’.” Plant Finder. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1955/tiger-eyes-african-marigold/
