Friday, October 23, 2009

Mexican Mint Marigold

Mexican Mint Marigold, Tagetes lucida, is quite the hardy herb.  Growing in heavy clay and receiving sporatic irrigations, this yellow flowering perennial catches your eye.  Planted as a 4" pot two years ago, it survived a 6 month construction project and a few winters.  This spot has such poor soil that we have reverted to using potted plants.  I love how it fills the area.   An equally hardy Lemongrass is growing behind the Mexican Mint Marigold.  Also known as Mexican Tarragon or Winter Tarragon, Tagetes lucida can be substituted for French Tarragon.   Personally, I think it has a stronger flavor so I use it sparingly.   Use it in soups or chicken dishes.   Mexican Mint Marigold blooms in the summer and fall - attracting lots of butterflies.  

If you are in the market for some herbs, drop by the Master Gardeners booth at the Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival.    The trade show is located at the Casa de Amistad in Harlingen, Texas and runs from November 12 -15

1 comment:

Corner Gardener Sue said...

I think that's a plant I've grown here in Nebraska as an annual. I probably heard it was edible, but forgot to try it. You have me curious to try it. I like to make soup, so thanks for the tip!