Aztec marigold (cempasúchil)

Tagetes erecta

flower

Large orange flowers eaten in salads and used as food coloring: one of the most widespread edible flowers.

Origin

Mexico

Where to find it

In the fields of Xochimilco, Puebla and Michoacán, where it is grown for the Day of the Dead; its flowers are sold by the armful at markets in late October.

Season (United States)

all year round

Preparation

The petals are pulled from the bitter green centre and scattered raw over a salad or dish; an infusion of petals also colours rice or dough.

Molecules

In small amounts, not counted Lutein and zeaxanthin

Did you know?

It is the flower of the Day of the Dead altars in Mexico.