Marigold Care: French, African, and Signet Types

French, African, and signet marigolds — Tagetes patula, T. erecta, and T. tenuifolia — are among the lowest-maintenance annuals you can grow, with genuine pest-deterrent value in the vegetable garden.

Which marigold are you growing?

French marigolds (Tagetes patula)

Compact plants, 6–12 inches tall, with small single or double flowers in yellow, orange, rust, and bicolor. The most widely sold type. Per University of Minnesota Extension, French marigolds are "more tolerant of wet conditions than African marigolds" and perform well throughout the summer in northern states where African types sometimes struggle with early-season cool temperatures. They deadhead more readily and are generally better for small spaces and borders.

African (American) marigolds (Tagetes erecta)

Despite the name, T. erecta originates in Mexico. Large, fully double pompom flowers 2–4 inches across on plants 18–36 inches tall. The showiest of the three types and the most important for nematode suppression when grown as a cover crop. Per University of Minnesota Extension, African marigolds "take longer to bloom from seed" and are often started indoors 6–8 weeks before transplanting. They need full sun and do not tolerate the cool, wet springs common in zones 4–5 as well as French types do.

Signet marigolds (Tagetes tenuifolia)

Lacy, ferny foliage with small single flowers — less showy than the others but the most aromatic (lemon-scented) and the best for edging. The flowers are edible and genuinely pleasant in salads. 'Lemon Gem' and 'Tangerine Gem' are the standard varieties. Signets are heat-tolerant and self-cleaning — no deadheading needed.