Tagetes filifolia - Irish Lace - Licorice Marigold - Licorice Carnation

The Licorice Marigold (Tagetes filifolia), also known as Licorice Carnation or Irish Lace, is an aromatic annual plant prized for its finely divided foliage with a pronounced flavour of licorice and aniseed. It fits well in herb gardens but can also be grown in pots on a balcony, allowing you to enjoy its flavours in cooking and its benefits in infusions.

Belonging to the Asteraceae family, the Tagetes filifolia is native to a vast region stretching from northern Mexico to Argentina. In its natural habitat, it is mainly found in temperate zones of Latin America. This herbaceous annual plant forms a dense and compact clump reaching about 30 cm in height and width. Its tender green leaves are finely divided, giving the plant a delicate appearance. In late summer, small white flowers appear, adding a subtle decorative touch. The foliage emits a sweet aroma reminiscent of licorice and aniseed.

Only its leaves are edible and offer the palate a licorice flavour, followed by a subtle hint of aniseed. In cooking, they are used to enhance soups, accompany seafood, or flavour fish and poultry dishes. They also bring an original flavour to desserts, pastries, and fruit salads. When dried, the leaves retain their aroma and can be used in infusions.

Harvesting: the leaves of the Licorice Marigold can be picked between July and September, once the plant has developed sufficidntly. To ensure continuous growth, it is advisable not to cut more than a third of the shoots in any one harvest. This practice allows for several pickings before flowering.

Storage: After harvesting, the leaves should ideally be dried before storage. Drying should be done away from direct light and at a temperature not exceeding 40°C. For even drying, it is important to lay the leaves flat without any overlapping. The leaves are ready when their texture becomes completely crumbly.

The Tagetes filifolia grows effortlessly in rich and moist soil. This annual tolerates full sun well, although scorching exposures may give it a slightly over-pronounced, somewhat bitter taste. It is a naturally disease-resistant and easy-to-grow species. In a herb garden, this small rounded plant can be placed at the base of taller plants.

Traditionally, among the Maya of the highlands, the Tagetes filifolia was used to treat gastrointestinal issues and relieve fevers. This plant is also recognised for its medicinal properties although its primary use remains culinary.

Gardener's Tip: as the flowers of the Licorice Marigold are quite subtle, this plant is mainly grown for its aromatic foliage. For regular harvests throughout the summer, remember to prune the plant frequently to obtain new and fragrant leaves, perfect for your culinary preparations.