Mexican Tarragon, Sweet Mace, Sweet Marigold, Texas Tarragon, Pericón
Tagetes lucida
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Mexican Tarragon is used as a culinary herb, substituting for French Tarragon in warmer climates. The leaves have a licorice-like flavor. Flowers and leaves are edible in salads, teas, and desserts. Medicinally, it is used in traditional Mexican medicine for digestive issues, anxiety, and colds. It is a good companion plant, repelling nematodes and some harmful insects. Can be used as a dye plant.
Permapeople description
An aromatic herb with flavors of anise and tarragon, often used as a culinary herb and in traditional medicine.
Botanical description
Tagetes lucida is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It typically grows to a height of 18-30 inches. The leaves are lanceolate, glossy green, and emit an anise-like fragrance when crushed. The flowers are small, bright yellow, and daisy-like, blooming in late summer and fall. The plant is native to Mexico and Central America and thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
Companion planting
It is considered a good companion plant for vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant, as it repels nematodes and some insects. Avoid planting near members of the cabbage family, as it may attract cabbage white butterflies.
Propagation methods
Propagation can be achieved through seeds, stem cuttings, or division of the root ball. Seeds should be sown in spring after the last frost. Stem cuttings can be taken in spring or summer and rooted in water or soil. Division can be done in spring or fall.
History and traditions
Historically, Tagetes lucida has been used by indigenous peoples of Mexico and Central America in religious ceremonies, particularly during Day of the Dead celebrations, where it is offered to the deceased. It has also been used as a flavoring agent in chocolate and other beverages. Traditional medicinal uses include treatment of digestive ailments, fever, and as a general tonic.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs from late summer to fall (August-October). Leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season. Planting is best done in spring after the last frost. Pruning can be done to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.