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Description
Tagetes Lucida, commonly known as Mexican tarragon or sweet Mace, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Mexico and Central America and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The plant has a strong anise-like flavor and aroma and is often used in culinary preparations.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Tagetes |
Appearance
Tagetes Lucida has bright green leaves that are long and slender with serrated edges. It grows up to a height of 60 cm and has a spread of about 30 cm. The flowers are yellow or orange and are made up of small florets. The plant blooms from late summer to early fall.
Care Guide
Tagetes Lucida is easy to grow and care for. It requires well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It requires moderate watering and is drought-tolerant. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tagetes Lucida is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. To control these pests, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be prone to root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Tagetes Lucida is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in dry, rocky soils. It prefers warm temperatures and does well in areas with a Mediterranean climate. The plant is often grown in herb gardens and is also grown commercially for its medicinal properties.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Tagetes Lucida edible?
A: Yes, the plant is edible and is often used in culinary preparations.Q: What are the medicinal properties of Tagetes Lucida?
A: The plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including digestive issues and respiratory problems.Q: Can Tagetes Lucida be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a sunny location.Q: What is the best time to harvest Tagetes Lucida?
A: The plant should be harvested in the morning when the essential oils are at their highest concentration.
Related Plants
- Tagetes Erecta
- Tagetes Patula
- Tagetes Tenuifolia
- Tagetes Minuta
References
- “Tagetes lucida.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 17 June 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e862>
- “Tagetes lucida.” Plants For A Future. Accessed 17 June 2021. <https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Tagetes+lucida>
- “Mexican Tarragon (Tagetes lucida).” Gardeners’ World Magazine. Accessed 17 June 2021. <https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/tagetes-lucida/>
