Muster-John-Henry

Tagetes minuta

Physical Characteristics

Tagetes minuta is a ANNUAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in leaf from April to November, in flower in October, and the seeds ripen in November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. 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

S. America. Naturalized in S. Europe[50].

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Condiment The dried leaves are used as an aromatic seasoning for soups and vegetables[183]. They give an apple-like flavour[238]. An essential oil obtained from the distilled plant, harvested when in flower, is used as a flavouring in ice cream, baked goods, soft drinks etc[183, 238].

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Antispasmodic Aromatic Diaphoretic Digestive Diuretic Purgative Stomachic The whole plant is anthelmintic, antispasmodic, aromatic, diaphoretic, diuretic, purgative and stomachic[61, 238]. It is used internally in the treatment of gastritis, indigestion and internal worms[238]. Externally, it is used to treat haemorrhoids and skin infections[238]. The plant is harvested when in flower and dried for later use[238].

Known Hazards

This species has an irritant sap that can cause dermatitis in sensitive people[238].