Significance of the Marigold Flower

Several types of flower may be called the marigold, including the American marigold (Tagetes erecta) and the European pot marigold (Calendula officinalis). They are common garden plants, but they have a rich history and several different meanings.

Marigolds in the Language of Flowers

• The language of flowers, also known as floriography, assigned flowers different meanings and used bouquets to send messages. The language of flowers was popular in the Victorian era, and according to the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, the calendula marigold stands for health, constancy and joy.

Marigolds and the Day of the Dead

• According to MexConnect, the American marigold is linked to Los Dias de los Muertos, or the Days of the Dead. On the days that celebrate the deceased, paths of marigold petals are created between the cemetery and the home, as the fragrance is thought to draw the attention of the dead.

Marigolds in Europe

• In Europe, the pot marigold is also called calendula, or Mary's Gold, in reference to the Virgin Mary. The flower was associated with heaven and was thought to represent good luck and to ward off evil curses.