African Marigold, Aztec marigold, Big Marigold, American Marigold

Tagetes erecta

Physical Characteristics

Tagetes erecta is a ANNUAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.4 m (1ft 4in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is frost tender. It is in flower in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Southern N. America - Mexico.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Edible Uses: Colouring Condiment The petals of the flowers of some varieties can be eaten[183]. The fresh receptacle is eaten by children[272]. A yellow dye obtained from the flowers can be used as a saffron substitute for colouring and flavouring foods[183]. The plant is used as a condiment[177]. (This probably refers to the use of the flowers as an edible dye)

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Aromatic Carminative Digestive Diuretic Dysentery Eczema Emmenagogue Laxative Ophthalmic Sedative Skin Stomachic The whole herb is anthelmintic, aromatic, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, sedative and stomachic[61, 238]. It is used internally in the treatment of indigestion, colic, severe constipation[238], coughs and dysentery[218]. Externally, it is used to treat sores, ulcers, eczema. sore eyes and rheumatism[218, 238, 257, 272]. The leaves are harvested as required for immediate use during the growing season, whilst the flowering plant can be dried and stored for later use[238]. A paste of the leavs is applied externally to treat boils, carbuncles and earaches[272]. The flowers are carminitive, diuretic and vermifuge[272]. A decoction is used to treat colds, and mumps[218]. It is applied externally to trea skin diseases, conjunctivitis and sore eyes[218, 272]. The root is laxative[272].

Known Hazards

None known