Marigolds come in various types, but the two main types widely cultivated and recognized are African Marigolds and French Marigolds. Each type has distinct characteristics and uses, making them suitable for different gardening needs and aesthetic preferences.
African Marigolds (Tagetes erecta)
Overview: African Marigolds, also known as American Marigolds or Aztec Marigolds, are renowned for their large, vibrant blooms and tall growth habit. They are native to Mexico and Central America and are often used for their impressive size and color.
Characteristics:
- Height: Typically range from 18 to 36 inches tall, making them some of the tallest marigold varieties.
- Flowers: Feature large, double blooms that come in shades of yellow, orange, and gold. The flowers are often dome-shaped and can be quite striking in size and appearance.
- Growth Habit: Generally, these marigolds have a robust, upright growth, making them suitable for background plantings and focal points in garden beds.
- Uses: Ideal for creating bold, colorful displays in garden beds and borders. Their large blooms make them excellent for cut flower arrangements. They can also act as a visual barrier or backdrop in mixed plantings.
Popular Varieties:
- Crackerjack: Known for its large, vibrant flowers in a range of warm colors.
- Jubilee: Tall plants with bright yellow, large blooms.
- Inca: Features large, double blooms in shades of yellow and orange.
- Marvel II: Produces large, eye-catching blooms with strong color.
- Kilimanjaro White: Offers striking white flowers that contrast beautifully with other colors.
French Marigolds (Tagetes patula)
Overview: French Marigolds are known for their compact, bushy growth and a variety of flower colors. They are native to the southwestern United States and Mexico and are favored for their versatility and vibrant displays.
Characteristics:
- Height: Generally smaller than African Marigolds, ranging from 6 to 18 inches tall.
- Flowers: These marigolds produce small to medium-sized blooms that can be single or double. They come in a wide range of colors, including red, orange, yellow, and bicolor combinations.
- Growth Habit: French Marigolds are bushier and more compact, making them ideal for edging, container gardening, and small garden spaces.
- Uses: Perfect for creating colorful borders, filling containers, and adding vibrant splashes of color in smaller garden areas. They are also effective as companion plants to deter pests in vegetable gardens.
Popular Varieties:
- Bonanza: Features compact plants with double blooms in various colors, including red, orange, and yellow.
- Durango: Known for its bicolor flowers with red and orange hues.
- Safari: Offers bushy growth and diverse flower colors, including red, yellow, and orange.
- Queen Sophia: Known for its vibrant, multi-colored blooms.
- Janet: A compact variety with bright, cheerful blooms.
Summary
African Marigolds (Tagetes erecta): Tall, large-flowered marigolds with vibrant colors, suitable for background plantings and focal points.
French Marigolds (Tagetes patula): Compact, bushy marigolds with a wide range of flower colors, ideal for borders, containers, and small garden spaces.
Both types of marigolds offer unique attributes and benefits, allowing gardeners to choose the best variety based on their specific needs and garden design.
