African Marigold Smiles Seeds - Tagetes erecta

African marigold 'Smiles' is a very cheerful selection that features large, bright yellow double blooms on tall stems from June to October. Ideal for cutting! Heat and weather resistant, floriferous, these superb annuals really bring summer bedding schemes to life. Grow in well-drained soil, in full sun to part shade.

Tagetes erecta, commonly known as African Marigold, is a tender herbaceous annual that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Mexico, Central America and the western regions of South America. It is not cold hardy and is generally treated as an annual in colder climates. 'Smiles' quickly forms large, erect clumps, about 90 cm tall for a spread of 40 cm, covered with dark green, deeply divided, shiny leaves with an intense aroma. The flowering period lasts several weeks from June to October, providing spent flowers are removed regularly. This variety features double, slightly flattened pompom-like flowerheads that measure 8-10 cm in diameter. They are composed of numerous very wavy, bright yellow ray flowers.

African marigolds are brightly coloured, cheerful annuals that are easy to grow, perfect for summer beds! They can be planted alongside perennials, annuals and even small shrubs; ornamental grasses will soften their flamboyant colours. Their abundant orange, yellow or red blooms mix well with blue-flowering catmints and perennial flax or poppies. 'Smiles' is also suitable for fresh summer flower arrangements.

Good to know: The intensely scented leaves and the substances secreted by marigold roots repel various harmful insects, making marigolds an excellent companion plant in the vegetable garden.