Copper Marigold
tagetes lemmonii
Also known as: ["Lemmon's Marigold","Mountain Marigold"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, known for its aromatic foliage and bright yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Tagetes |
| Botanical Name: | Tagetes lemmonii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Lightly prune after flowering; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and rejuvenation needs.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Can tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm conditions (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor nighttime temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist 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 (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and promote flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or diseased stems; cut just above a leaf node.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose a new pot with drainage; use fresh potting mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; 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 morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues. Allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows; leaves may turn yellow or brown; flowering ceases in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with frost cloth if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C); reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or bud drop during extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; mist foliage during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Tagetes lemmonii. The plant's compounds can cause discomfort but are not typically life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Tagetes lemmonii can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's essential oils and other secondary metabolites. Symptoms are typically mild and self-limiting.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicTagetes lemmonii, commonly known as Lemmon's marigold, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant amounts. The plant's essential oils may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tagetes lemmonii toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Tagetes lemmonii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How much water does Tagetes lemmonii need?
A: It is drought-tolerant and prefers moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry 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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