Mexican mint marigold
Tagetes lucida
Also known asMexican tarragon · Texas tarragon · Winter tarragon · Spanish tarragon · Pericón · Yauhtli
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates. Strict on light; outside the DLI band, yields drop sharply.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 8–11 (winter low around -12°C)
- Frost
- frost sensitive (dies at first frost)
- Season
- warm (summer, frost-sensitive)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
| Perlite (Expanded volcanic glass) | neutral / inert | very low | low |
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0.8 |
| vegetative | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1.4 |
Aquaponics suitability
Compatible
Fish waste provides enough nitrogen for healthy growth. Supplemental potassium, calcium, and iron may still be needed depending on fish stocking density.
Care notes
An excellent warm-climate substitute for French tarragon. EC 1.0-2.0 mS/cm. pH 6.0-7.0. Temperature: 20–35°C (thrives in heat that kills French tarragon). High light (DLI 16-25 mol/m2/day). Any hydroponic system works. From transplant to first harvest: 6-8 weeks. Perennial in frost-free conditions; in cold climates, treat as an annual or overwinter indoors in a bright window. Harvest by cutting stem tips; the plant branches freely. The anise flavor is useful as a direct tarragon substitute in bearnaise sauce, chicken dishes, vinaigrettes, and egg preparations. For tea, steep fresh leaves in hot water (a traditional Mexican herbal tea). Propagation by stem cuttings or division; seeds germinate slowly and erratically. The plant is pest-resistant and low-maintenance. For growers in hot, humid climates (the southern US, tropical regions) where French tarragon is impossible to grow, Mexican mint marigold fills that culinary niche.