The Heat-Loving Perennial With A Licorice Scent That Brightens Your Garden Into Fall

What do you get when you combine a pleasant licorice scent with a burst of bright yellow flowers that thrive in the heat and continue to bloom long after other plants have given up for the season? Mexican tarragon (Tagetes lucida), a heat-loving perennial that still blooms when summer has faded into fall. Also known as Mexican marigold or Texas tarragon, this herb and ornamental plant is a native to Mexico and Central America, and it grows well in hot, dry conditions where many other plants struggle.

Its ability to tolerate heat and drought makes it a low-maintenance option for busy gardeners. While it's commonly grown as an annual in most climates, those in USDA zones 8 through 11 may be able to enjoy it as a perennial, since it can recover from mild freezes. Its aromatic leaves and bright flowers are an excellent choice for filling up that empty sunny spot in your garden.

Growing Mexican tarragon is relatively simple, which makes it a wonderful addition to any garden. This plant thrives in sunny locations, so you should choose a spot that gets at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. Mexican tarragon is not picky about soil as long as it drains well since it doesn't like being waterlogged. The leaves and flowers can be used as a flavorful addition to some dishes, providing a distinct anise-like taste that works well as a substitute for French tarragon. It can also be dried and burned as a fragrant incense.

Once established, it's one of many drought-tolerant plants, making it a great choice for gardens that receive little water. During dry spells, water it deeply about once a week to encourage a strong root system. Fertilizing is not usually needed, since too much can cause fewer flowers. To get the most blooms, be sure to deadhead and prune it to control its shape and size. For those in colder areas, the plant might die back in winter, but a layer of mulch will help the roots survive, allowing it to return the following spring.

Mexican tarragon can be started from seeds or cuttings, though seeds may take longer to establish. Sow the seeds directly in the ground after the last frost or start them indoors a few weeks before. Space the plants about 12 to 18 inches apart to give them room to grow, since they can reach up to three feet in height.

For those looking for plants that work as natural bug control, Mexican tarragon is good for the entire garden with its strong aroma that naturally deters many common pests. The fragrance from its leaves can confuse insects like aphids and whiteflies, making it an excellent companion for vegetables and other plants they often target. By planting it strategically around susceptible crops like tomatoes and cabbages, you can create a living, protective deterrent. Its scent is also known to keep deer from grazing, providing a simple and natural way to protect your garden without using harsh chemicals.

While the plant itself is rarely bothered by pests, its bright yellow flowers are a major draw for beneficial insects. Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators are needed for a healthy garden, and they are naturally attracted to Mexican tarragon. Their presence helps to improve the pollination of all the plants in your garden and contributes to a balanced ecosystem. The combination of repelling pests, welcoming pollinators, thriving in the heat, and long-lasting blooms make it a valuable addition to any garden.