Skip to content

African Marigold

Tagetes erecta

A South American native first introduced into Europe through northern Africa and grown at Monticello

AI generated image from an original Monticello photograph.

Thomas Jefferson noted the planting of African Marigold seeds along the Winding Flower Walk on April 8, 1812. Although native to South America, they were first introduced into Europe through northern Africa: hence, the common name. Double garden forms were common around 1800, but this is the species, or wild form, of African Marigold with unusual (and rare) single, yellow flowers.

In Bloom at Monticello is made possible by support from The Richard D. and Carolyn W. Jacques Foundation.

When you're here...

Between April and October, all house tours come with a free guided Garden Tour, or you can explore the grounds on your own with the Bloomberg Connects App 

Plan your visit

Weekly Hours

Jan 18 - 24
  • Sunday, January 18, 2026
  • Monday, January 19, 2026
  • Tuesday, January 20, 2026
    Closed
  • Wednesday, January 21, 2026
  • Thursday, January 22, 2026
  • Friday, January 23, 2026
  • Saturday, January 24, 2026