Marigolds are one of the easiest and most reliable flowers to grow in a backyard garden. Known for their bright orange and yellow blooms, marigolds add long-lasting color from early summer until fall.
They are fast-growing, low-maintenance, and often planted to help deter pests in vegetable gardens. From tall statement flowers to compact edging plants, these are the most popular varieties of marigolds to grow in your backyard.
1. African Marigold (Tagetes erecta)
African marigolds are the largest marigold variety, producing big, round flowers in bright yellow and orange shades. They grow tall and work well at the back of garden beds or as statement plants. These marigolds love full sun and bloom nonstop through the summer.
2. French Marigold (Tagetes patula)
French marigolds are compact plants with smaller, colorful blooms, often in red, orange, and yellow combinations. They are very popular for borders and vegetable gardens because they stay low and are easy to manage. This variety is hardy, fast-growing, and beginner-friendly.
3. Signet Marigold (Tagetes tenuifolia)
Signet marigolds have delicate foliage and small, daisy-like flowers. They are known for their light citrus scent and edible petals. This variety grows well in containers, borders, and herb gardens and blooms heavily with very little care.
4. Triploid Marigold
Triploid marigolds are a cross between African and French marigolds, combining large blooms with compact growth. They are very heat-tolerant and bloom consistently even in hot weather. This variety is often chosen for reliable color in challenging conditions.
5. Crackerjack Marigold
Crackerjack marigolds are a classic tall variety with large, fluffy blooms. They grow quickly and produce vibrant color throughout the season. These marigolds are great for filling larger garden spaces and adding bold height.
6. Inca Series Marigold
Inca marigolds are a popular type of African marigold known for their large, uniform blooms. They grow well in full sun and handle heat nicely. This variety is great for gardeners who want bold color and a neat, consistent look in their garden beds.
7. Durango Marigold
Durango marigolds are compact French marigolds with bright, bicolor flowers. They bloom early and continue flowering through the season. This variety works well for edging, containers, and smaller garden spaces.
8. Bonanza Marigold
Bonanza marigolds are low-growing French marigolds that spread evenly and bloom heavily. They are easy to grow and very reliable, even in hot weather. This variety is ideal for borders, vegetable gardens, and mass plantings.
9. Safari Marigold
Safari marigolds are larger French marigolds with bold, double blooms. They offer rich color and a tidy growth habit. This variety is a good choice for gardeners who want fuller flowers without the height of African marigolds.
10. Disco Marigold
Disco marigolds are single-flowered French marigolds that bloom early and attract pollinators. They stay compact and are great for containers and edging. This variety is valued for its simplicity and easy care.
11. Gem Series Marigold
Gem marigolds are a type of signet marigold with small, bright flowers and fine foliage. They have a light citrus scent and bloom nonstop through the season. This variety is perfect for edging, containers, and herb or vegetable gardens.
12. Janie Marigold
Janie marigolds are compact French marigolds with neat, double blooms. They grow quickly and stay low, making them ideal for borders and small garden beds. This variety is popular for its tidy growth and dependable color.
13. Antigua Marigold
Antigua marigolds are a dwarf African marigold with large, full flowers on shorter plants. They offer the bold look of African marigolds without the extra height. This variety works well in containers and formal garden designs.
14. Hero Marigold
Hero marigolds produce large, vibrant blooms and are known for their uniform growth. They are easy to maintain and perform well in warm, sunny gardens. This variety is often chosen for bright, high-impact flower beds.
15. Vanilla Marigold
Vanilla marigolds feature soft, creamy-white blooms instead of the traditional orange or yellow. They add a unique look to backyard gardens and mix well with other colorful flowers. This variety is a great choice for gardeners looking for something a little different.
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.