Himalayan marigold (Tagetes lunulata, Nov. Rar. Pl. Descr. Dec.: 44 (1797))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: Ortega

Bibliography: Nov. Rar. Pl. Descr. Dec.: 44 (1797)

Year: 1797

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Tagetes

Vegetable: False

Observations: Mexico

Description

The Himalayan marigold, scientifically known as Tagetes lunulata, is an intriguing plant species within the family Asteraceae. First described in 1797 by Ortega in “Novarum Rariorum Plantarum Descriptiones,” this marigold has captured the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike due to its unique characteristics and vibrant appearance.

Originating from Mexico, the Himalayan marigold boasts a rich cultural and horticultural history. Despite its name suggesting an association with the Himalayan region, its roots are deeply embedded in the diverse landscapes of Mexico, where it thrives in a variety of environmental conditions. This plant is celebrated for its strikingly beautiful flowers, which range in shades and often provide a splash of color to gardens and natural settings.

The Tagetes lunulata typically features delicate, finely divided leaves that lend an air of elegance and intricacy to the plant. The flowers themselves are the highlight, with an arrangement that mirrors the classic marigold structure: clustered petals forming a composite head that stands out vividly against the green foliage.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the Himalayan marigold has been studied for various uses and benefits, including its role in traditional medicine and its potential as a natural pest deterrent in gardens. Its presence in both natural and cultivated settings continues to be valued, whether for its beauty or for its practical applications.

Overall, the Himalayan marigold (Tagetes lunulata) is a plant of considerable allure and functionality, marking its place in the botanical world through its origins in Mexico and its subsequent appreciation across various regions and cultures.

Common Names

Eng: himalayan marigold
En: Himalayan marigold
Fi: Ryhmäsamettikukka

Synonyms

Distribution

• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Mexico Southwest (native)
• India (introduced)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken May 3, 2020 by victoria green (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 9, 2022 by jesus go (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 2, 2022 by Andrzej Konstantynowicz (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Oct 2, 2022 by Andrzej Konstantynowicz (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 2, 2022 by Andrzej Konstantynowicz (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 2, 2022 by Andrzej Konstantynowicz (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 2, 2022 by Andrzej Konstantynowicz (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 2, 2022 by Andrzej Konstantynowicz (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken May 3, 2020 by victoria green (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3088477)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:252122-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Tagetes lunulata Ortega)

Specifications

Growth