How Marigolds Became the Ceremonial Day of the Dead Flower in Mexico

Iwill never forget visiting my grandmother’s hometown of Pátzcuaro, Michoacán, at the beginning of November last year. For a brief three-day span, the streets, entryways, and old colonial buildings were decorated with thousands of fresh marigolds as the town was making preparations to welcome their ancestors.

Native to Mexico, the cempasúchil , or marigold, is recognized as the ceremonial Day of the Dead flower used to guide the spirits of our loved ones back home. The word cempasúchil derives from the indigenous language Nahuatl and means “the flower of 20 petals.” According to Mexican tradition, the flower’s aroma and bright orange color ensure the spirits don’t get lost during their visit in early November.

Photo: Christine Chitnis

Photo: Christine Chitnis

Photo: Christine Chitn