Marigold (African Giant)

📖 About This Plant

Marigold (African Giant) is the largest marigold variety available — producing enormous, fully double carnation-like blooms 4–5 inches across in rich shades of yellow, gold, and orange. Growing 2–3 feet tall in zones 3–11 as a heat-loving annual, African Giant marigolds make a bold statement in garden beds, borders, and as a living pest barrier around vegetables. The flowers are powerful companion plants, exuding thiophene compounds from their roots that repel nematodes, while the dense flower heads deter aphids and whitefly. African Giant produces fewer but dramatically larger flowers than French types — each bloom is a showpiece. They're also superb cut flowers and dry beautifully for wreaths and potpourri.

📊 Quick Facts

📅 When to Plant in Your Area

🌱 Care Tips

Start African Giant marigolds indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, or direct sow after frost in warm soil. These are large plants — space transplants 18–24 inches apart in full sun. They need fertile, well-drained soil and consistent moisture to produce the large blooms their name promises. Fertilize every 4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to prevent seed formation and keep the plant producing. The main pest issue is spider mites in hot, dry conditions — overhead watering or neem oil sprays help. African Giants are slower to flower than French types (70–90 days from seed) so early starting is important. Plant in groups of 3–5 for maximum visual impact in borders. Their strong scent deters deer and rabbits effectively.

🤝 Companion Plants

These plants grow well alongside Marigold:

🌿 Related Flower

More flower that grow in similar conditions:

❓ Frequently Asked Questions