Marvel II™ Gold African Marigold

Marvel II™ Gold is an upright annual African marigold (*Tagetes erecta*) selected for bright golden flowers and a long seasonal display. Ball Seed lists plants 16–18 inches tall and 10–12 inches wide, with flowering reported from early spring through late summer in its growing information. Use this compact, branching selection in sunny containers, borders, and mass plantings. Grow in fertile, well-drained soil and keep moisture even; the species tolerates clay and occasional dryness but prefers evenly moist soil. Pinch young plants if fuller branching is desired, and deadhead spent flowers promptly to help maintain bloom and reduce the weight of old flower heads on stems. NC State notes that African marigold flowers and brushed foliage are fragrant, attract butterflies and hummingbirds, and are seldom damaged by deer. ## Maintenance Water regularly while plants establish and during dry spells, allowing excess water to drain. Remove spent flower heads and check stems after heavy rain. Start seed indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost and plant outdoors after frost danger has passed. See [Ball Seed](https://info.ballseed.com/WEBTRACKPLANTINFO.ASPX?PHID=040708762002119&env=P) and [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/tagetes-erecta/).