Marigolds

Marigolds are warm-season annuals that typically bloom from late spring through late fall, or until the first frost, with summer being their peak flowering period. They require warm soil for planting and thrive in full sun, though prolonged periods of extreme heat can temporarily slow their blooming, potentially reviving them in autumn after a pruning.  

 Mexican culture, they are a poignant symbol of the connection between life and death during the Day of the Dead. Their radiant colors and strong fragrance are used to guide souls and remind people that death is a continuation, not an end. The flower's association with the sun also links it to themes of renewal, warmth, and spiritual connection across various traditions.  

The Role of Marigolds in Día de los Muertos

• Guiding Spirits: The vibrant orange and yellow hues of the marigold, along with its potent fragrance, act as a spiritual beacon, guiding souls from their graves to their family altars. 

• Pathways of Petals: Families often scatter marigold petals to create a path, leading from the cemetery or the entrance of the home to the ofrenda (altar). 

• Symbolism: The flower symbolizes the cycle of life and death and is essential for the ofrenda, ensuring that the celebration acknowledges and remembers departed loved ones. 

• Cultural Significance: The tradition originates with the ancient Aztecs, who used cempasúchil in their rituals. This practice blended with Roman Catholic observances after the Spanish conquest, creating the unique celebration of Día de los Muertos. 

An ofrenda (Spanish: "offering") is the offering placed in a home altar during the annual and traditionally Mexican Día de los Muertos celebration. An ofrenda, which may be quite large and elaborate, is usually created by the family members of a person who has died and is intended to welcome the deceased to the altar setting. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ofrenda