Huacatay, Peruvian Black Mint, Southern Marigold, Muster John Henry
Tagetes minuta
🌿 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
Leaves used as a culinary herb, having a flavor profile somewhere between mint, basil, tarragon and citrus. Used to make the popular Peruvian sauce, Ocopa. Strong scent repels many insect pests in the garden, including whiteflies, nematodes and Mexican bean beetles. Can be used as a green manure or chop-and-drop mulch to suppress weeds and add nutrients to the soil. Also has some medicinal uses.
Permapeople description
Root Secretions are effective against nematodes and keeled slugs but also inhibit growth of some plants in the area.
The oils may cause irritation to the skin.
Botanical description
Tagetes minuta is an erect, annual herb typically reaching heights of 1-2 meters. It features pinnately compound leaves with serrated leaflets and numerous small, inconspicuous, creamy-white flowers arranged in dense terminal clusters. The entire plant is highly aromatic. The stems are green and branching. The seeds are small and black.
Companion planting
Repels nematodes and other pests, making it a good companion plant for tomatoes, potatoes, and other susceptible crops. May inhibit the growth of some legumes if planted too closely.
Propagation methods
Primarily propagated by seeds. Seeds can be directly sown into the garden after the last frost or started indoors for transplanting. Cuttings are also possible but less common.
History and traditions
Native to South America, specifically the Andes region. Traditionally used by indigenous communities in Peru and Bolivia for culinary and medicinal purposes. The leaves have been used to flavor dishes, and medicinally for digestive ailments and respiratory issues. Also used in traditional ceremonies.
Usage calendar
Sow seeds in spring after the last frost. Harvest leaves throughout the growing season (summer to fall). Flowering occurs from late summer to fall. Seeds can be collected in fall after the flowers have faded.