Dropshot Marigold
Tagetes filifolia 'Dropshot'
Height: 10 inches
Spread: 10 inches
Sunlight:
Hardiness Zone: (annual)
Other Names: Mexican Marigold
Description:
Mainly grown for its foliage, this bushy, compact selection is perfect for adding some sweetness to patio containers, borders or gardens; ferny thin, and tender leaves with a sweet licorice flavor are great for adding to drinks, tea and salads
Edible Qualities
Dropshot Marigold is an annual herb that is commonly grown for its edible qualities. The small fragrant ferny green leaves can be harvested at any time in the season. The leaves have a sweet taste and a distinctive fragrance.
The leaves are most often used in the following ways:
- Fresh Eating
- Eating When Cooked/Prepared
- Cooking
- Baking
- Tea
Planting & Growing
Dropshot Marigold will grow to be about 10 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 10 inches. Its foliage tends to remain low and dense right to the ground. This annual will normally live for one full growing season, needing replacement the following year.
This plant is typically grown in a designated herb garden. It should only be grown in full sunlight. It prefers dry to average moisture levels with very well-drained soil, and will often die in standing water. It may require supplemental watering during periods of drought or extended heat. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selection of a native North American species. It can be propagated by division; however, as a cultivated variety, be aware that it may be subject to certain restrictions or prohibitions on propagation.
Dropshot Marigold is a good choice for the edible garden, but it is also well-suited for use in outdoor containers and hanging baskets. It is often used as a 'filler' in the 'spiller-thriller-filler' container combination, providing the canvas against which the thriller plants stand out. Note that when growing plants in outdoor containers and baskets, they may require more frequent waterings than they would in the yard or garden.
