For the Love Of Cempasúchil (AKA Marigolds)

For centuries, marigolds — or "cempasúchil" as the Aztecs named them — have been an integral part of Mexican traditions. On Día De Los Muertos, it is said the flowers attract the spirits of the departed, helping those celebrating connect with their ancestors.

Día De Los Muertos is the time of year when those who observe set up altars — or ofrendas — to remember their loves ones. Photographs, sugar skulls and other treats enjoyed by lost relatives are placed on the altars with, of course, marigolds.

How to LA Host Brian De Santos visited Andi Xoch, owner of Latinx with Plants in Boyle Heights, to talk about the significance of the flower.

Marigolds are native to Mexico and have long been used on Día De Los Muertos as part of the offerings to the dead. The musky sweet scent and the bright color helps the spirits find their way.

"Giving them that extra guidance is important, knowing that even though they are past...we can still somehow feel them through their spirit or their memory," Xoch said. "Holding on to these traditions is one way to celebrate us a unique culture, but also remind folks that although we are long gone, we are not forgotten."

On the practical side, Xoch noted, they last a long time without much maintenance, making them a good choice for altars. They are also great fly-repellants and can keep mosquitoes at bay.

The Aztecs named the flowers cempasúchil and indigenous people revered them for their many properties. Their bright orange petals are said to capture the essence of the Mexican sun. 

They were used for rituals, medicinal applications, and celebrations. Many of those practices have carried on today. Xoch said she's used marigolds to infuse alcohol, like mezcal, and as a natural dye.

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Go deeper:

Feeding The Spirits Of Our Ancestors: How Los Angeles Celebrates Dia De Los Muertos

Meet The Matriarch of Día de los Muertos in LA