Description
Commonly known as:
Mexican Mint Marigold, Mountain Marigold, Copper Canyon Daisy
Description of Plant:
Tagetes lemmonii is a fragrant, drought-tolerant perennial shrub known for its finely divided foliage and masses of cheerful golden-yellow flowers. It often puts on its strongest display from fall through winter, bringing welcome color when many other plants have slowed down. In addition, the strongly aromatic foliage and nectar-rich flowers make it a distinctive choice for Southern California pollinator and water-wise gardens.
Growth Habit:
This fast-growing, rounded shrub typically reaches 3–6 feet tall and wide. It develops a loose, billowing shape and responds well to pruning when a more compact form is desired.
Watering Instructions:
Water regularly while the plant establishes. Once established, water deeply but infrequently and allow the soil to dry between waterings. It becomes quite drought tolerant with age.
Soil Needs:
Prefers well-draining soil but adapts to many Southern California garden soils. Avoid constantly wet or poorly drained conditions.
Sun Requirements:
Thrives in full sun and also tolerates partial shade. Plenty of sunlight encourages dense growth and abundant flowering.
Indoor or Outdoor Tips:
Best grown outdoors in pollinator gardens, informal borders, slopes, and water-wise landscapes. Give it enough room to develop naturally, or prune after flowering to control its size and encourage fresh growth.
Perennial or Annual:
Perennial in Southern California.
Additional Tips:
Fragrant: The foliage releases a strong citrusy, marigold-like fragrance when touched or brushed. The golden flowers also attract butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects. Edible: Although some Tagetes species have culinary uses, Mexican Mint Marigold should not be confused with Mexican tarragon (Tagetes lucida), the species commonly grown as an edible tarragon substitute.
