Tagetes erecta, the Mexican marigold or Aztec marigold, is a species of the genus Tagetes native to Mexico. Despite its being native to the Americas, it is often called African marigold. In Mexico, this plant is found in the wild in some states.
An annual plant also known as American marigold, African marigold (Tagetes erecta) produces huge round blooms atop sturdy stems adorned by bright green, ferny foliage. One of the largest members of the marigold family, African marigold attains a height of 2 to 3 feet at maturity. These drought-tolerant, sun-loving plants bloom in a variety of bright colors, including orange, yellow, rusty-red, mahogany and gold. The impressive flowers measure as much as 5 inches in diameter.