Hello everyone, my name is Ulum Pixan and I am the former Education Director and now the Equity and Inclusion Director of NOFA Mass. I am a farmer and also a Curandera.
I feel so encouraged and excited to share about my most favorite cultural holiday “Día de los muertos” and its connection with one of the most amazing plants…
Yes you guessed it!! Cempasúchil (in Nahuatl), also known as Marigolds
I first will like to talk about its
History and Cultural Significance
**Mesoamerican Roots**: Marigolds have been cultivated in Mesoamerica for thousands of years, particularly by the Aztecs, who used them in rituals and ceremonies. Marigolds’ bright colors and distinct scent made them symbolic of the sun and associated with the divine.
**Cempasúchil**: The Nahuatl term “cemooalxochiyl,” or its modern spelling “cempasúchil,” refers to marigolds and translates to “the flower of twenty petals.” This flower is often used in Day of the Dead celebrations to honor the deceased- and is believed to guide spirits back to the world of the living through their vibrant colors and scent.
**Global Spread**: Following the Spanish colonization, marigolds spread to Europe and beyond. Today, they are grown worldwide, celebrated for their beauty and versatility in gardens and landscapes.
Second lets talk about her
Etymology
The word “marigold” comes from the Middle English *marigolde*, derived from *Mary’s gold*, referring to the Virgin Mary. This reflects the flower’s significance in Christian symbolism, often associated with purity and compassion.
Colors and Varieties
**Vibrant Colors**: Marigolds are known for their stunning hues, ranging from deep yellows and oranges to rich reds. The vivid colors make them popular in gardens, floral arrangements, and cultural ceremonies.
**Types of Marigolds**: There are several species of marigolds, but the most common include:
- **Tagetes erecta** (African Marigold): Known for its large, globe-shaped flowers and tall stature.
- **Tagetes patula** (French Marigold): Smaller flowers, often with a bushy habit, featuring more varied colors and patterns.
Agricultural Qualities and Uses
**Pest Repellent**: Marigolds are often planted in gardens for their pest-repellent qualities, as they can deter nematodes and other harmful insects, making them beneficial companion plants.
**Medicinal Uses**: Traditionally, marigolds have been used in herbal remedies. Their petals are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, often used in salves and teas.
**Culinary Uses**: The petals of certain marigold varieties are edible and can add color and flavor to salads, soups, and garnishes.
**Cultural Practices**: Beyond their aesthetic appeal, marigolds are integral to cultural rituals, especially during festivals like Día de los Muertos, where they are used to create altars and decorations to honor ancestors.
My passion for marigolds resonates with their vibrant history and significance in various cultures. As a farmer, growing marigolds adds beauty to your land and connects you to a rich heritage spanning centuries. Whether for their aesthetic appeal, ecological benefits, or cultural importance, marigolds are remarkable flowers! If you’d like to share specific experiences or insights from your farming, feel free to elaborate!
