When it amount to marigolds , there are two main species that are commonly produce in home gardens . These are the French marigold ( Tagetes patula ) and the African marigold ( Tagetes erecta ) . While they both belong to the same genus , there are some notable differences between these two varieties .
One of the most obvious difference is their size and height . French marigolds are known for their compact maturation riding habit , typically reaching a height of about 6 - 12 inches . On the other deal , African marigolds are much expectant in size , often growing up to 3 feet magniloquent . Their taller stature makes them a great choice for impart height and visual sake to garden beds or moulding .
Another distinguishing feature film between these marigold is the sizing of their blooms . French marigold bring forth modest bloom , typically measuring around 2 inch in diam . In contrast , African marigolds are renowned for their big and showy blooms , which can attain impressive sizes of up to 4 column inch across . These prominent bloom make African marigolds a popular choice for adding bold splashes of semblance to garden beds or floral arrangements .
Apart from their size of it and flower visual aspect , French and African marigolds also differ in term of their leafage . French marigolds have soft , lacy leave that are typically dark light-green in gloss . In contrast , African marigolds have tumid and more robust leaves , which can be slightly hairy or rough in texture . The foliage of African marigold tends to be a lighter shade of green compare to their Gallic opposite number .
In terms of their growing preferences , both French and African marigold are relatively easygoing to naturalise . They are both sun - love plants that prosper in well - run out dirt . However , African marigolds are generally more tolerant of hot and dry term , while Gallic marigold can be a bit more sensible to extreme heat .
When it come to color option , both French and African marigolds volunteer a broad compass of options . They come in various specter of jaundiced , orangish , and blood-red , with some cultivars even sport bi - color or multi - colour blooms . The availability of different color options tolerate gardeners to make vivacious and diverse bloom exhibit .
In my personal experience , I have regain that both Gallic and African marigolds are excellent selection for add together colour and beauty to garden . The heavyset sizing of French marigolds give them perfect for container gardening or replete in smaller spaces , while the larger height of African marigolds have them ideal for adding summit and drama to larger garden areas .
The main difference between African marigold and French marigold lie down in their size , flower show , leafage , and growing preferences . French marigold are more compact with small blossom , while African marigold are heavy with showier flower . Gallic marigolds have touchy leafage , whereas African marigolds have bombastic and slimly bumpy leaves . Both varieties come in a wide mountain range of colors and are comparatively easy to acquire , but African marigold are generally more broad of hot and ironic status . finally , the choice between these marigold form depends on personal taste and the specific needs of your garden .
Caroline Bates
