There exists a long history between plants and rituals. From ceremonial and religious occasions to seasonal festivals and rites of passage, plants have had a unique place in these events and our lives.
Dia de los Muertos, also known as Day of the Dead, is no different. This special day is set aside for honoring our ancestors. According to an online publication by Vanderbilt University, many who observe this day do not view death as the end. It is considered to be part of the cycle of life.
The celebration of Dia de los Muertos was brought by Spaniards to Latin America in the 16th century. It was then “mixed with indigenous rituals honoring the dead”. On Nov. 1, families typically assemble altars for the purpose of honoring their deceased loved ones. Photographs, food, candles and other gifts are laid out. Gravesites are cleaned and adorned. People then gather at the cemetery for food, music and dancing. And, of course, to celebrate life.
Mexican marigold (Tagetes erecta) is the most commonly associated flower for Day of the Dead. This particular marigold represents death. It is said that the flower’s strong fragrance and bright color may “help lead the dead back to their altars.” The petals of the marigold are sometimes spread on the floor from the front door of the home to where the altar is located inside. This is done to help the spirit find their way.
In addition to being decorative, the flowers of Tagetes erecta are edible. Although, the flavor has been described as strong and pungent.
WebMD shares that Tagetes have been traditionally used for respiratory and stomach ailments. Tagetes is used as a flavoring agent in certain drinks and foods while the oil can be found in some perfumes. And, oddly enough, the flowers are dried and ground into chicken feed. This is done to “enhance the characteristic yellow color of chicken skin and egg yolk.”
If you want to grow your own Mexican marigolds in preparation for next year’s Dia de los Muertos, you can start seeds indoors mid to late April. Once we have passed the last frost date in May, they can be transplanted outdoors. Mexican marigolds are an annual plant preferring full sun.
Kelley Rawlsky has an M.S. in horticulture and is the director of Bringing People and Plants Together, an organization dedicated to bringing horticulture education and therapy to the community. For more information: PeopleAndPlantsTogether@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook.
The Link LonkOctober 31, 2020 at 07:02PM
https://www.broomfieldenterprise.com/2020/10/31/people-and-plants-flowers-for-dia-de-los-muertos/
People and plants: Flowers for Dia de los Muertos - Broomfield Enterprise
https://news.google.com/search?q=Flower&hl=en-US&gl=US&ceid=US:en
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