Close-Up African Marigold Blossom Photo, Bright Orange Petals, Garden Flower Art Print, Nature Photography

This image showcases a dense planting of Tagetes erecta, also known as African Marigolds or Aztec Marigolds, though they originated in Mexico and Central America, not Africa. These annual flowering plants are widely cultivated for their large, showy flower heads in shades of yellow, orange, and sometimes bi-colors. Historically, Marigolds have held significant cultural importance in various societies. In Mexico, they are prominently featured in Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) celebrations, where their vibrant colors and scent are believed to attract the spirits of the deceased. Their introduction and cultivation in regions like the Philippines highlight their adaptability and popularity as ornamental plants, often used in gardens, borders, and for cut flowers. They are also known for their pest-repellent properties in gardens.