Signet Marigold

Signet marigold, also listed as lemon marigold, is a flowering plant in the daisy family that the source describes as either an annual or a perennial. It is native to Mexico, Central America and Peru. Plants grow about 8 to 30 inches (20 to 76 cm) tall and 9 to 30 inches (23 to 76 cm) wide.

The flowers are smaller than those of African or French marigolds. They are about 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.5 cm) across and range from yellow to orange and red, blooming through summer and fall. The cultivars ‘Golden Gem’ and ‘Lemon Gem’ have yellow flowers, and ‘Orange Gem’ has bright orange flowers. The foliage is aromatic and smells lemon-like when crushed.

Sowing. Seed is the recommended way to grow this plant. Start seed indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Plants are also sold in four or six packs from local nurseries.

Planting out. Set plants outdoors after the last frost date. Choose a spot in full sun. Taller varieties do best in a place sheltered from strong wind or heavy rain, which reduces the need for stem support.

Uses in the garden. It can be grown in containers, hanging baskets, borders, along foundations and as a single specimen or in a mass planting. It is often grown as a companion plant in vegetable gardens and does well beside tomatoes.

Watering. Water regularly, but don’t overwater. The plant tolerates some dry conditions but prefers moist, well-drained soil.

Deadheading. Remove faded flowers before seeds form to extend the flowering season.

Signet marigold is resistant to insect pests and deer. It is susceptible to snails, slugs and botrytis, a fungal disease.

The flowers of some cultivars have a pleasant citrus-like flavor and can be used sparingly as a flavoring or garnish.

The page rates the plant’s poison characteristics as low severity. The listed poison parts are the flowers, roots and sap, and the page describes any skin irritation as minor, usually lasting only a few minutes. Handle the plant with care if you have sensitive skin. Only the flowers of some cultivars are described as edible.