Tagetes tenuifolia (Marigold) Tangerine / Orange Gem – compact, bright orange summer bloomers

Tagetes tenuifolia Tangerine (Orange Gem) is a fine-leaved, low-growing annual Marigold known for its bright orange flowers and delicate, graceful leaf structure. This compact plant combines elegance with abundant flowering and is perfect for borders, rock gardens, pots, and balcony boxes. The warm orange hue of Orange Gem creates a cheerful, sunny atmosphere while also attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making the plant not only beautiful but also ecologically valuable.

Thanks to its long-lasting flowering period and compact size, Orange Gem is an excellent choice for gardeners who want to combine colour with ease of maintenance.

Characteristics – compact, fine and richly flowering

Tagetes tenuifolia Tangerine grows low, usually 20–30 cm tall, with finely incised, aromatic foliage that creates an airy effect in a border or pot. The flowers are small (about 2 cm in diameter) but appear in large numbers, creating a dense, bright orange sea of ​​blooms.

Flowering begins in June and can continue until the first frost, especially if spent flowers are regularly removed. This encourages the plant to continually produce new flower buds, resulting in a constant and abundant bloom.

Location and care

Orange Gem is easy to care for and suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners. For optimal growth:

• Sun: full sun for maximum flowering, partial shade possible with slightly fewer flowers

• Soil: well-drained, light soil; soil that is too rich will produce more leaves and fewer flowers.

• Water: Water regularly for young plants, once established they are drought tolerant.

• Fertilization: moderate feeding supports flowering without excessive leaf growth

This Tagetes thrives in pots and balcony boxes, provided the soil is airy and excess water can drain away. Its compact, bushy growth keeps the plant neat and organized.

Edible and bee-friendly

A particular advantage of Tagetes tenuifolia is that the flowers are edible and have a mild citrus flavor. They are used in salads, desserts, drinks, or as decoration.

Tangerine/Orange Gem also attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. This means the plant not only provides a visual accent but also contributes to biodiversity and a healthy garden.

Applications in garden design

Tagetes tenuifolia Tangerine / Orange Gem is versatile in various garden styles:

• Borders and edges: compact height and bright colour make the plant perfect for the foreground

• Rock gardens: airy leaves and small flowers go well with stones and gravel

• Balcony and terrace: ideal for pots and containers

• Edible gardens: flowers are culinary additions

• Biodiversity: attracts beneficial insects, bees and butterflies

The warm orange colour combines beautifully with purple or blue flowers for contrast, or with yellow and red tones for a summery, harmonious look.