Description

This plant was used in ancient Greek, Roman, Arabic and Indian cultures as a medicinal herb as well as a dye for fabrics, foods, and cosmetics. The leaves are edible, with the petals added to dishes as a garnish and in lieu of saffron.

They can be easily cultivated, are widely adaptable to varying soils and climatic conditions and have a good flowering duration. This bushy plant with around 20 to 30 species have a long flowering period and the colors range from orange, yellow, gold, cream to apricot. They are very much used in making garlands. Make excellent beds and pot decorations.
This the plant was used in ancient Greek, Roman, Arabic and Indian cultures as a medicinal herb as well as a dye for fabrics, foods, and cosmetics. The leaves are edible, with the petals added to dishes as a garnish and in lieu of saffron.

Plant height: 14 - 14.5 inches

Plant spread: 4 - 6 inches

Bloom time: Spring, Summer, Fall

Max reachable height: 2 to 3 feet

Difficulty to grow: Easy

Caring for African Marigold

Germination from large, easily handled seeds is rapid, and blooms should appear within a few weeks of sowing.
When you water marigolds, allow the soil to dry somewhat between watering, then water well, then repeat the process.
The densely double flower heads of the African marigolds tend to rot in wet weather.
Do not water marigolds from overhead.
Water at the base of the plant.

Harvesting

Spring, Summer, Fall