Mexican marigold is an annual herbaceous plant from the daisy family (Asteraceae, traditionally Compositae). The species is botanically accepted as Tagetes erecta L. and is native to Mexico and Guatemala. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental, aromatic and plant-based raw material.
The plant develops an upright stem, pinnate leaves and large flower heads in yellow, orange to yellow-brown shades. The flowers may be single or double, depending on the cultivar. The characteristic aroma comes from the essential oil found in different parts of the plant. The flowers are valued as a raw material for herbal powders, natural colourants, cosmetic products and decorative botanical blends.
Basic Information
- Latin name: Tagetes erecta L.
- Parts used: leaves (Folia Tagetis), flowers (Flores Tagetis), stems
- Origin: Bulgaria
- Raw material type: cultivated
- Flowering period: June – late autumn
- Flower harvest period: before full blooming
Raw Material Characteristics
The flowers are collected at a suitable stage of development, when their colour, aroma and carotenoid content are well expressed. The raw material is dried carefully to preserve its bright colour, natural aroma and overall botanical quality.
Chemical Composition
Mexican marigold contains mainly carotenoids, lutein, flavonoids, quercetagetin, phenolic compounds, essential oil and tannins.
Suitable for the Production of
- herbal powders
- decorative dried blends
- natural colourants
- cosmetic formulations
- botanical extracts
- aromatic products
- functional plant-based blends
Medicinal Properties and Effects on the Body
Mexican marigold has the following properties:
- antioxidant
- antimicrobial
- anti-inflammatory
- aromatic
- beneficial effect on the skin
- supportive role in plant-based formulations
Forms Available
- Mexican marigold flowers (Flores Tagetis) – dried, cut to custom size upon request, or powdered
Quality and Documentation
Upon request, a Certificate of Analysis (COA), technical documentation and additional documents may be provided.
Inquiry
Contact us for availability, samples and a quotation based on the required quantities and raw material specifications.