Desert Marigold

Desert marigold (*Baileya multiradiata*) is a Southwest native forb that may behave as a short-lived perennial or biennial. Its gray-green, softly hairy basal foliage supports long-stemmed yellow flower heads; the current catalog size is retained, while wild plants are often more compact. ### Flowers and placement The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service reports intermittent flowering from March through November, with year-round bloom possible when conditions are favorable. It describes typical spreading width as 10–30 cm and notes the species’ adaptation to dry, disturbed desert sites ([USDA NRCS plant guide](https://plants.sc.egov.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/plantguide/pdf/pg_BAMU.pdf)). Texas A&M’s rangeland guide also lists yellow flowers and annual-to-perennial duration ([Texas A&M AgriLife](https://rangeplants.tamu.edu/plant/desert-baileya/)). Flowering and size vary with rainfall and site conditions. ### Growing conditions Choose a sunny, well-drained location; sandy or gravelly soil is suitable, though the USDA guide notes that it survives other soil types with good drainage. It is drought tolerant after establishment and can suit dry gardens. USDA NRCS reports that its nectar-rich flowers attract native bees and butterflies. ## Maintenance Water young plants as they establish, then avoid frequent irrigation in well-drained soil. Allow some seed heads to mature if natural reseeding is desired; remove them if a tidier display is preferred.