French Marigold, Dwarf French Marigold

Tagetes patula

Physical Characteristics

Tagetes patula is a ANNUAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.3 m (1ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is frost tender. It is in flower from July to October, and the seeds ripen in September. 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: Edible Uses: Colouring Condiment Drink The flowers are used in refreshing drinks[177, 183]. The leaves are used as a food flavouring[183, 238]. No further details are given. The essential oil is used as a food flavouring, though it is inferior to the oil obtained from T. minuta[238]. The dried flowers are an adulterant of saffron(Crocus sativus), used for colouring foods yellow[183, 238].

Medicinal Uses

Aromatic Digestive Diuretic Dysentery Sedative The whole herb is aromatic, digestive, diuretic and sedative[238]. It is used internally in the treatment of indigestion, colic, severe constipation[238], coughs and dysentery[218]. Externally, it is used to treat sore eyes and rheumatism[238]. 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].

Known Hazards

None known