Beloved by many gardeners and flower lovers, marigolds also hold rich symbolism. Although the meaning of marigolds varies between cultures and locations, they are often seen as symbols of joy, resilience, and passion. These warm-colored blooms are also linked to the holidays of Día de los Muertos and Diwali.
About the Marigold
Marigolds are a large group of flowering plants in the Tagetes genus. They’re native to parts of Central America, but gardeners around the world use the plants to brighten up gardens and containers. Most marigold flowers appear in shades of yellow, orange, and red, and they bloom for multiple months throughout the summer.
These plants are quick growers and easy to maintain, so they’re ideal flowers for beginner gardeners and children. As long as you provide them with full sun and moist yet well-draining soil, they’ll reward you with a long-lasting display of blooms.
There are many different marigold varieties, but people often divide the flowers into three main categories: French, African, and signet. Each of these categories has unique characteristics, but they all require similar care.
What Is the Meaning of Marigolds?
It just takes one look at marigolds’ bright colors to see why they’re popular additions to gardens. But have you ever thought about the marigold flower meaning? These vibrant flowers have rich symbolism that varies between cultures, but people often view the flowers as symbols of the following.
Joy
When you consider marigolds’ bright colors, it makes sense that they are symbols of joy. Yellow and orange blooms are especially joyful, but other colors may also be linked to feelings of happiness. People also connect marigolds with the sun, which also relates to the flower’s symbolism of warmth and joy.
Resilience
The marigold’s bright flowers and hardy growth habits make it a symbol of resilience. Its yellow and orange blooms provide light in even the darkest of times and remind us to hold onto hope. That’s why you may see these flowers present at funerals and during holidays like Dios de los Muertos. The plant’s ability to bloom for multiple months (even in adverse conditions) explains why resilience is a marigold flower’s meaning.
Passion
The marigold’s warm colors and connection to the sun are one reason why these flowers are seen as symbols of passion. All types of marigolds can be linked to passion, but red flowers are closely tied to passionate romance and love. Therefore, red marigolds are a great gift if you want to let someone know you have strong feelings for them.
Marigold Meaning in Día de los Muertos
Marigolds hold a special symbolism during the Mexican celebration of Día de los Muertos, otherwise known as the Day of the Dead. This celebration arose when Aztec celebrations relating to the death deity Mictecacihuatl combined with the Roman Catholic All Saints Day. Today, Mexican families celebrate Día de los Muertos on November 1 and 2.
While many people assume these flowers symbolize death, their meaning goes beyond symbolizing the end of life. People believe that the marigold’s bright colors symbolize the sun, and when the flowers are placed near the dead, they solidify the connection between life and death. Their brightness reminds individuals that death isn’t the end of life for our souls but rather a change in where our spirits reside.
The marigold flower meaning is also important for this holiday due to its strong fragrance. The flower’s potent scent is said to attract the souls of loved ones who have died. That’s why you often see people creating stunning marigold-laden altars and sprinkling marigold petals throughout the entrances to their homes. Some families even leave trails of the petals from cemeteries, through town, and to their front doors.
Marigold Meaning in Hindu Culture
Hindus also give special meaning to marigold flowers and view them as symbols of hope, love, success, and purity. Since these flowers have so many positive associations, you can find them at many Hindu festivals, ceremonies, and special events.
When the five-day festival of Diwali occurs, garlands made of marigolds decorate doorways and tabletops, petals bring brightness to floors, and vases of flowers adorn houses. Since Diwali is a celebration of the victory of good over evil and light over darkness, the marigolds’ bright colors make them a natural fit for this holiday.
Hindus also use marigolds for other important celebrations, especially weddings. Marigold garlands often decorate the wedding altar and sometimes adorn the necks of the bride and groom. That’s because Hindus think the marigold meaning relates to positivity, success, and love.
Types of Marigolds
You can find hundreds of different marigold varieties, but gardeners typically break this flower into three main categories. All of these varieties hold similar marigold flower meaning.
French Marigolds
French marigolds (Tagetes patula) typically grow between 6-12 inches tall, making them a great option for planters as well as the front of gardens. The flowers may have single or double petals and come in colors including yellow, orange, and red.
African Marigolds
African marigolds (Tagetes erecta) are the tallest type of marigold and can grow three to four feet tall. Their tall stems mean they work well as cut flowers, but they also look nice in the background of mixed garden plantings. The double flowers resemble small pom-poms, and they often grow multiple inches wide.
Signet Marigolds
Signet marigolds (Tagetes tenuifolia) are the smallest type of marigold and grow in a mounding rather than upright habit. The plants rarely grow taller than six inches, and the simple flowers have a single layer of petals. Signet marigolds are often used as edible garnishes on salads and baked goods.
Order Flowers for Every Occasion
Whether you’re looking for bright, cheerful flowers like sunflowers and marigolds or pastel blooms, we have a wide selection of bouquets to choose from. And since we source all of our flowers from sustainability minded farms, you can feel good when you order flower delivery online.
If you need some help deciding which type of flower to order, you can always learn about the different flower meanings. We’ve put together guides on the meaning of sunflowers and the symbolism of gardenias. Once you have a better understanding of each flower’s symbolism, you’ll be better prepared to pick out blooms that are perfect for the occasion at hand.
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