A marigold is a small, bright orange or yellow flower that looks like a pom-pom. The name comes from “Mary’s gold,” a nod to the Virgin Mary and the flower’s golden color.
People plant marigolds in gardens, window boxes, and vegetable patches because they’re easy to grow and help keep pests away. You’ll also see them in Day of the Dead celebrations, where families use the petals to make colorful paths or altars, and in Indian festivals where garlands of marigolds decorate homes and temples. Florists tuck a few stems into bouquets for a quick pop of color, and some gardeners dry the petals to make natural yellow dye.
Meaning & Usage Examples
- “I lined my tomato bed with marigolds to keep bugs out.”
- “We scattered marigold petals along the walkway for the wedding.”
- “She wore a marigold-colored scarf that matched the garden.”
Context / Common Use
Gardeners love marigolds because they thrive in poor soil and full sun, blooming all summer. In many cultures, the flower stands for remembrance, celebration, and protection. You’ll spot them in everything from backyard veggie plots to large festival displays.
Are marigolds only orange and yellow?
Most are shades of orange and yellow, but some varieties show deep red or bicolor petals.
Do marigolds have any special meaning?
Yes—they often symbolize warmth, creativity, and remembrance, especially in Mexican and Indian traditions.
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