Tagetes erecta

Scientific description

Scientific name: Tagetes erecta
Common name: Marigold
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum (Division): Tracheophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower family)
Genus: Tagetes
Species: Tagetes erecta L.

Origin:
Native to Mexico and Central America. Despite the common name "African Marigold," it is not native to Africa.

Description:
Upright annual 30–100 cm, large pom-pom flowers in yellow, orange, gold. Aromatic pinnate leaves with lance-shaped leaflets. Sturdy ribbed stems. Long bloom season from early summer to autumn.

Propagation:
By seed. Sow indoors 4–6 weeks before last frost or directly outdoors after frost. Germinates quickly; may self-seed in some regions.

Ecology:
Attracts bees, butterflies, beneficial insects. Repels nematodes, whiteflies, aphids. Thrives in full sun, well-drained soil; tolerates poor soils and dry conditions once established.

Uses:
Gardens, borders, containers. Central to Día de los Muertos in Mexico. Used in Hindu rituals and garlands in India. Traditional Mexican and Ayurvedic medicine. Anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, eye-supporting. Herbal teas, topical applications. Natural food coloring. Lutein extracts used in poultry feed.

Creative writing inspired by Tagetes erecta

Tagetes erecta — Katifea

In a distant village, there lived a young maiden named Katifea, known for her golden beauty and radiant heart. She was loved by all for her kindness and her ability to bring joy to those around her. Katifea had a special garden that she tended with great care, filled with vibrant flowers of every color. But among all the blossoms, her favorite was a tall, golden flower that shone as brightly as the sun—the marigold.

One day, the god Apollo, attracted by her radiant garden, descended from Mount Olympus to visit her. He was so taken by Katifea’s beauty and the brilliance of her golden flowers that he asked her to join him as his companion. However, Katifea cherished her simple life on Earth and humbly declined Apollo’s offer.

Apollo, though hurt by her refusal, respected her wishes. As a gift of farewell, he blessed her garden and her beloved flowers, turning them into a symbol of light and protection. The marigolds, now known as Tagetes erecta, were endowed with golden petals that mirrored the sun itself, bringing warmth and light to those who cared for them.

Over time, the people began to call the flowers Κατιφέδες, in honor of the maiden Katifea who had brought so much light into their lives. They believed that marigolds had the power to protect against evil, and they would plant them in their gardens to bring good fortune and prosperity. The flower became a symbol of devotion, purity, and the enduring connection between the Earth and the heavens.

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Authentic Specimen