Quick answer: Desert marigold (Baileya multiradiata) is native to 4 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seeds, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Photo: No machine-readable author provided. Curtis Clark assumed (based on copyright claims)., Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.5)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Low |
| Soil | Sandy or gravelly, tolerates caliche, subject to crown rot if too wet |
| Bloom | Mar-Nov |
| Height | Usually 18 in (to 3 ft) |
| Wildlife value | Nectar for native bees/butterflies/insects |
none; self-sows but described as "well-behaved"
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seeds via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Desert marigold
Where is Desert marigold native?
Desert marigold (Baileya multiradiata) is native to Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Desert marigold bloom?
Desert marigold blooms Mar-Nov. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Desert marigold need?
Light: Part shade. Water: Low. Soil: Sandy or gravelly, tolerates caliche, subject to crown rot if too wet. Mature height: Usually 18 in (to 3 ft).
Is Desert marigold good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Nectar for native bees/butterflies/insects.
Is Desert marigold deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Desert marigold is deer-resistant, drought-tolerant, tolerates shade and handles wet soil.
Where can I buy real Desert marigold seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seeds that names the true species, last checked 15 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Baileya multiradiata on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Desert marigold.
- Creosote bush Larrea tridentata
- Firecracker penstemon Penstemon eatonii
- Great blue lobelia Lobelia siphilitica
- Rocky Mountain penstemon Penstemon strictus
- Common sotol Dasylirion wheeleri
- Scarlet bugler Penstemon barbatus
Also listed under
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