Mexican tarragon, Spanish tarragon, Mexican marigold
tagetes lucida
Also known as: ["Tagetes lucida","Spanish tarragon","Mexican marigold"]
Overview
A perennial herb native to Mexico, valued for its aromatic leaves and golden-yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","edible fruits","medicinal use","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Tagetes |
| Botanical Name: | Tagetes lucida |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Pinch back tips every 4–6 weeks during growing season; deadhead flowers as they fade.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in very hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm conditions (65–85°F or 18–29°C); thrives in heat but benefits from some afternoon shade in intense summer.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late autumn to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss mix)
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–3 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch or snip stems just above a leaf node; deadhead by cutting flower stems at the base.
Pruning Plan
Encourage bushier growth and more blooms; remove spent flowers to prolong flowering.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased growth; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2 inches wider in diameter)
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; yellowing or root rot in cold, damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; use frost cloth for in-ground plants; ensure good drainage to prevent cold soil.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; flowering may decrease; soil dries out quickly.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; mist foliage during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTagetes lucida is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is generally safe for feline consumption, though large amounts may cause mild digestive upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicTagetes lucida is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for canine consumption, though large amounts may cause mild digestive upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicTagetes lucida, commonly known as Mexican tarragon, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its essential oils.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Mexican tarragon edible?
A: Yes, its leaves and flowers are edible and used in culinary applications, often as a substitute for French tarragon.
Q: Does Tagetes lucida attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its fragrant flowers.
Q: How often should I water Mexican tarragon?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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