Dark Orange Marigold (Tagetes erecta)

Tagetes erecta, commonly known as African marigold or Aztec marigold, is a vibrant flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. Native to Mexico and Central America but now cultivated worldwide, it is cherished for its large, showy blooms in shades of yellow and orange. Traditionally, the plant has held cultural and ceremonial importance—especially in Mexican Día de los Muertos celebrations—while its petals are also used as a natural dye and in herbal remedies for digestive and anti-inflammatory support. With its bright blossoms, aromatic foliage, and versatile cultural and medicinal roles, Tagetes erecta remains a valued plant in gardens, rituals, and traditional healing practices.