Difference Between Marigold and Tagetes

1. Difference in appearance

The height of cosmos is about 30-100 cm, with branches spreading out obliquely. Marigolds are taller, about 50-150 cm, and their branches spread flat upward.

2. The difference between leaves

The leaves of cosmos are pinnately divided, about 2-9 cm long and 1.5-3 cm wide. The lobes are linear-lanceolate with serrated edges. The leaves of marigold are larger and longer than the former, about 5-10 cm long and 4-8 cm wide. The lobes are lanceolate or oblong and also serrated.

3. The difference between flowers

The cosmos has a capitulate inflorescence and grows solitary. The diameter is about 3.5-4 cm, the color is golden yellow or orange, with red spots, and the petals are smooth. The flowers of marigold are slightly larger, about 6-8 cm in diameter, yellow or dark orange in color, and the edges of the petals are serrated and not smooth.