Cempasúchil, an Ancestral Flower

Representing the cyclical nature of both life and death, the Mexican Marigold, a medicinal flower with twenty ruffled petals, is associated with Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.

Used in rituals and ofrendas to honor those who have passed on, the Aztecs gave it its Nahuatl name cempoalxóchitl, which was later adapted to cempasúchil in Spanish.

Following Halloween, on November 1st and 2nd, we celebrate Día de los Muertos. A tradition in Mexico that represents remembrance, honor, and ritual.

The next time you come across these orange and yellow-hued blossoms, take a moment to embrace their roots.

Shot on Contax T2