Marvel Orange – Bright orange African marigold for winter displays
Family
Asteraceae
Description
Marigold 'Marvel Orange' is a highly sought-after cultivar of Tagetes erecta (African Marigold) due to its robust growth and abundant, large orange flowers. Part of the Marvel series, it is specifically bred for optimal performance in warm climates and is ideal for landscape usage. This variety maintains uniformity under various day lengths and exhibits sturdy, wind-resistant stems.
As a taller species of African Marigold, it stands at roughly 20% taller than the Inca Series. With a height of 16-18 inches (41-46cm), this variety also serves as a natural mosquito repellent, making it a great addition to outdoor areas such as patios, porches, and seating areas. Marigold 'Marvel Gold' is also known to attract bees and butterflies.
Environment
Marigolds needs minimum of 6 hours of full sunlight daily, well-drained soil with moderate fertility, and some afternoon shade to extend blooming in hot summer regions. Also, consider planting taller varieties with a spacing of 8-10 inches in protected areas to shield against harsh elements and provide support through light staking. Marigold requires 11-12 weeks from sowing to finish its growth period.
Marigolds can thrive in poor soils, high heat and humidity, and even drought conditions. Enhance their beauty and extend their blooming season by adding other flowers in succession to your landscape.
Landscape
Marigolds have multiple uses in flower gardens, including planting in mixed borders, as edging plants, and in patio containers. They are known to be beneficial to certain vegetables such as potatoes, tomatoes, basil, cucumbers, aubergines, squash, melons, asparagus, sweet corn, chilies, and peppers. When planning your garden, consider pairing marigolds with compatible flowers such as Allium, Tickseed (coreopsis), Roses, Sage (Salvia), Bachelor Buttons (Centaurea), Lavender (Lavandula), and Geraniums.





