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October Birth Flowers: Marigold and Cosmos

October is a beautiful month, filled with the colors of fall and the crispness of the air. It’s also a special month for those who are celebrating their birthdays. For those born in October, the marigold and the cosmos are the traditional birth flowers. These two flowers symbolize a range of emotions and meanings, from joy and celebration to love and grace.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at marigolds and the cosmos, exploring their history, symbolism, and uses.

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Birth Flower Gift Ideas for October Babies

Marigold Plant or Seeds

Red Marigold Flower Seeds
Red Marigold Flower Seeds. See it here.

A live marigold plant is a great gift for an October born. They can be planted in the garden or in a pot and will provide a vibrant display of color all season long. If they enjoy gardening, you can also gift them marigold seeds.

Marigold Bouquet

A marigold bouquet is a great gift for someone born in October as it’s the traditional birth flower for the month and holds special significance. Its vibrant colors and showy flowers make it a beautiful and eye-catching gift. Also, marigolds symbolize love, passion, and creativity, making them thoughtful and meaningful gifts. The fragrance and long-lasting nature of the bouquet will add to the overall gift experience.

Marigold or Cosmos Scented Candles

A marigold-scented candle is a great gift for October born. The floral aroma of marigolds will fill the room and create a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere.

Marigold-themed home decor: A marigold-themed home decor item such as a wall hanging, a pillow, or a vase can be a great way to remind them of their birth flower all year round.

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Marigold Print Tablecloth

Marigold Floral Round Tablecloth
Marigold Floral Round Tablecloth. See it here.

A marigold print tablecloth could make a good gift depending on the recipient’s taste and interest in home decor. It could be a thoughtful and practical gift for someone who enjoys hosting dinner parties or has recently moved into a new home.

Cosmos Flower Frame

A cosmos flower frame could make a nice gift for an October baby, especially if they have an interest in botany or gardening. The cosmos flower is known for its bright and colorful blooms and could add a touch of beauty to any room. Additionally, a flower frame can make a great gift for anyone who likes to decorate their home with art or photographs.

Cosmos or Marigold Incense Sticks

Marigold or cosmos-scented incense sticks could make a good gift, as they can provide a pleasant aroma and create a relaxing and soothing ambiance. Incense sticks are commonly used in meditation and yoga practices, so they would be a great gift for an October born who enjoys these activities. They could also be a thoughtful and unique gift for someone who enjoys aromatherapy or simply likes to make their home smell nice.

Marigold – What You Need to Know

White Marigold Flower
White Marigold Flower. See it here.

Marigolds are annual plants that are native to the Americas. They’re in the family of Asteraceae and are known for their bright and vibrant colors including orange, yellow, gold, and red. They are often used in gardens and landscapes as bedding plants, border plants, and cut flowers.

Marigolds are found in many different regions around the world, including North America, South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. They’re known to be drought-tolerant, heat-loving, and easy to grow in a variety of soils. They’re also often used in traditional medicine and are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Marigold Facts

Marigold Orange Flower Pendant Necklace
Marigold Orange Flower Pendant Necklace. See it here.
  • Marigolds have a distinctive spicy scent that acts in two ways, repelling pests and attracting beneficial insects.
  • The Aztecs believed that marigolds possessed magical qualities and revered them.
  • Different communities have since ancient times used marigolds for medicinal purposes, specifically to treat inflammations.
  • Some Christians believe that the blooms were named after the Virgin Mary, with the final name being a variation of Mary’s gold.
  • In Buddhism, the blossoms are an important part of the worship of Buddha.
  • In Hinduism, marigolds are said to have associations with the sun and are used to bring cheer to marriage celebrations.
  • Ancient Greeks and Romans used flowers to make cosmetics as well as a dye for fabrics. 
  • During medieval times marigolds were said to be the cure for the plague.
  • In Mexico, the color and smell of marigolds are said to attract the souls of the dead. They are therefore used to decorate home altars and gravesites during the rituals of the Day of the Dead.

Marigold Meaning and Symbolism

Marigold Strawberry Blonde
Marigold Strawberry Blonde. See it here.

Marigolds symbolize a variety of things depending on the context and cultural significance. They’re often associated with the sun, warmth, and fire, and are used to symbolize love, passion, and creativity. In some cultures, marigolds are associated with the afterlife and are used in Day of the Dead celebrations to honor the dead.

These flowers are also associated with the Virgin Mary and are often used in religious ceremonies and festivals. In general, marigolds are often seen as a symbol of devotion, passion, and creativity.

Marigolds can also represent the following:

  • Protection – In the olden days, marigolds were said to offer protection from lightning while crossing the river. They, therefore, became a symbol of protection.
  • Friendship – This symbolism was borrowed from Indians who presented the blooms as an offer of comradeship.
  • Warmth – the bright colors of the marigold caused them to be likened to the sun and consequently, with warmth and beauty.
  • Other symbolic meanings of the marigold include wealth, joy, optimism, and prosperity.

Marigolds in Dia de Los Muertos

Organic Dried Marigold flowers
Organic Dried Marigold flowers. See it here.

Marigolds, also known as “Flor de Muerto” (Flower of the Dead) play a significant role in the Mexican holiday Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead). They’re used to create altars and decorate gravesites to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away.

The bright orange color and strong scent of marigold flowers are believed to guide the spirits of the dead back to the living world, making them an essential part of the holiday’s traditions.

Uses of Marigold

French Marigold Flower Essence
French Marigold Flower Essence. See it here.

Marigolds are considered to be useful flowers as they serve multiple purposes:

  • Ornamental use: Marigolds are popular in gardening and landscaping, due to their vibrant colors and showy flowers. They’re often used as bedding plants, border plants, and cut flowers.
  • Medicinal use: In traditional medicine, marigolds have been used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. They’re also used to treat wounds and skin irritations.
  • Culinary use: Marigold petals can be used as a spice and food coloring. They’re often used in salads, soups, and other dishes to add color and flavor.
  • Dyeing: Marigold petals are used to make a yellow dye.
  • Religious use: As mentioned earlier, marigolds are associated with the Virgin Mary and are often used in religious ceremonies and festivals.
  • Pest control: Marigolds are known to repel certain pests and attract beneficial insects, making them useful as companion plants in gardening.
  • Industrial use: Marigold petals are used in some cosmetics and personal care products to provide color.

Growing Marigolds

Marigold Resin Pendant on Gold Chain
Marigold Resin Pendant on Gold Chain. See it here.

Growing marigolds is relatively easy as they’re low-maintenance plants. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil and are tolerant to drought and heat. They can be planted from seed or seedlings and bloom from mid-summer to frost. Deadheading the spent marigolds will encourage new blooms.

Marigolds also can be grown in pots and containers, making them a great choice for small gardens and balconies. With proper care, marigolds will provide a vibrant display of color all season long.

Cosmos – What You Need to Know

Apricot Lemonade Cosmos
Apricot Lemonade Cosmos. See it here.

Cosmos are a genus of flowering plants that are native to Mexico and Central America. They’re in the family of Asteraceae and are known for their delicate, daisy-like flowers. The name “cosmos” comes from the Greek word “kosmos” meaning “universe” or “harmony”, reflecting the beauty and symmetry of the flowers.

Cosmos are found in many different regions around the world, including North America, South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. They’re known to be drought-tolerant and are easy to grow in various soils. Cosmos also come in a variety of colors such as pink, white, yellow, orange, red, and purple. They are often used in gardens and landscapes as bedding plants, border plants, and cut flowers.

Cosmos Facts

Orange Cosmos Flower
Orange Cosmos Flower. See it here.
  • Cosmos are a member of the sunflower family (Asteraceae) and are related to other popular flowers such as daisies, zinnias, and chrysanthemums.
  • They’re known to attract beneficial insects such as butterflies, bees, and ladybugs to the garden.
  • Cosmos were brought to Europe from Mexico in the 16th century and were initially grown as ornamental plants.
  • Some species of cosmos can reach heights of up to 6 feet, making them suitable for use as background plants in gardens and landscapes.
  • They have a long vase life, so they’re great cut flowers and can be used to decorate homes and events.

Cosmos Meaning and Symbolism

Solid Gold Cosmos Birthflower Necklace
Solid Gold Cosmos Birthflower Necklace. See it here.

Cosmos flowers have different meanings and symbolisms depending on the context and cultural significance. They’re often associated with balance, harmony, and elegance, reflecting their delicate and symmetrical beauty. They’re also associated with the order, peace, and tranquility, which aligns with the meaning of the word “cosmos” which means “universe” or “harmony”.

In some cultures, the cosmos represent love, purity, and innocence. They’re also considered to be a symbol of the passage of time, reminding us that all things are fleeting and to cherish the present moment.

Here are some other meanings of cosmos flowers:

  • Luck – Because they repel insects and pests, planting cosmos was associated with luck that brought on a bountiful harvest.
  • Grace and simplicity – This symbolism is derived from the subtle yet beautiful arrangement of their delicate petals.
  • Order and balance – Based on the perfect arrangement of their petals and also their name, the cosmos are representative of harmony.
  • A mother’s lovePink cosmos are seen as a symbol of a mother‘s love.
  • Friendship – This meaning is associated with the yellow cosmos.
  • Devotion and faithfulnessWhite cosmos is a sign of an intention to stay true to your loved one.

Cosmos Uses

Beautiful Light Yellow Cosmos
Beautiful Light Yellow Cosmos. See it here.
  • Ornamental use: Cosmos is popular in gardening and landscaping, due to their delicate, daisy-like flowers and vibrant colors. They’re often used as bedding plants, border plants, and cut flowers.
  • Pollinator attractant: Cosmos are known to attract beneficial insects such as butterflies, bees, and ladybugs to the garden.
  • Culinary use: Cosmos petals are edible and can be used to add a light, sweet flavor, and a pop of color to salads and other dishes. They can also be used to make tea.
  • Medicinal use: In traditional medicine, the leaves of some cosmos species are used for medicinal purposes.
  • Dyeing: Cosmos petals can be used to make a range of dyes.
  • Cut flowers: With a long vase life, the cosmos makes a great cut flower and can be used to decorate homes and events.

Growing Cosmos

Cosmos Bouquet Flower Shirt
Cosmos Bouquet Flower Shirt. See it here.

Growing cosmos is relatively easy as they’re considered to be low-maintenance plants. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil but can tolerate a range of soil types and conditions. Cosmos are drought-tolerant and heat-loving, making them a great choice for summer gardens.

These flowers bloom from mid-summer to frost and need to be deadheaded to encourage new blooms. With proper care, the cosmos will provide a vibrant display of color all season long and will attract beneficial insects to your garden. Be sure to water regularly, especially during hot and dry weather, and fertilize them occasionally to ensure optimal growth.

October Birth Flowers FAQs

1. Why are cosmos flowers called cosmos?

Cosmos flowers are named after the Greek word “kosmos” meaning “harmony” or “ordered universe” due to their symmetrical and orderly structure.

2. What do cosmos flowers smell like?

Cosmos flowers have a light, sweet, and slightly spicy scent often described as vanilla-like or similar to cinnamon.

3. Is cosmos flower invasive?

Cosmos flowers are not considered invasive in most regions, but they can be aggressive self-seeders in some environments.

4. Is marigold poisonous to humans?

Marigold is not poisonous to humans, but consuming large amounts of the plant or oil may cause skin irritation and stomach upset.

5. Why is Cosmos the October flower?

Cosmos is the October flower due to its long blooming season, often lasting into late fall. It’s also considered a symbol of love and peace.

6. How long do marigolds bloom in the fall?

Marigolds usually bloom from late spring to early fall, with a peak in mid-summer, but can continue to bloom well into fall if deadheaded and given adequate water and light.

Wrapping Up

Both marigolds and cosmos aren’t just known for their beauty and vibrant colors, but also for their symbolic meanings and cultural significance. Just like these flowers, those born in October are known to be sturdy and harmonious people. They’re passionate, driven, and well-balanced, and just like the sun, they radiate warmth and friendship.

Related articles:

December Birth Flowers – Holly and Narcissus

July Birth Flowers: Delphinium and Water Lily

February Birth Flowers – Everything You Need to Know

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Rose Mulu
Rose Mulu

With a keen interest in understanding why life was and is as it is, Rose has been studying religion, culture, and history for over fifteen years. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication and uses this, together with her knack for literature, to share her knowledge and insight with the world.