Complete Guide to Chrysanthemums Flower: Care, Types & Growth

Chrysanthemums Flower, often simply called “mums,” are the quintessential autumn flower that brings vibrant color to gardens when many other blooms have faded. With their rich history spanning thousands of years and incredible diversity in shapes, sizes, and colors, these versatile flowers have become beloved worldwide for both ornamental and practical purposes. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about these remarkable blooms.

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Origin and Cultural Significance

Chrysanthemums originated in China over 3,000 years ago, where they were first cultivated as a flowering herb. The name “chrysanthemum” derives from the Greek words “chrysos” (gold) and “anthemon” (flower), referring to the original golden color of these blooms. Over centuries, they spread to Japan, where they became so revered that they were adopted as the emperor’s official seal and inspired a national “Festival of Happiness.”

Eastern Symbolism

In Asian cultures, particularly China and Japan, chrysanthemums symbolize longevity, rejuvenation, and nobility. In China, they’re associated with autumn and represent resilience as they bloom amid cooling temperatures. The Japanese consider the chrysanthemum a symbol of the sun, and their orderly unfolding petals represent perfection.

Western Symbolism

When chrysanthemums reached Europe in the 17th century, they took on different meanings. In many European countries, they’re associated with death and are used primarily for funerals and grave decorations. In America, they generally symbolize cheerfulness, optimism, and friendship, particularly the red varieties which represent love and deep passion.

Traditional Japanese chrysanthemums flower arrangement

7 Most Popular Chrysanthemum Varieties

With thousands of varieties developed over centuries, chrysanthemums come in an astonishing array of shapes, sizes, and colors. Here are seven of the most popular types you’ll find in gardens and floral arrangements:

Incurve Chrysanthemums

These classic mums feature petals that curve inward, creating a full, ball-like appearance. The large blooms can reach up to 8 inches in diameter and come in various colors including white, yellow, purple, and bronze. Popular varieties include ‘Emperor of China’ and ‘George Couchman’.

Spider Chrysanthemums

Spider mums feature long, tubular petals that droop and twist, resembling spider legs. These dramatic blooms create a striking display in gardens and floral arrangements. ‘Lava’ with its yellow petals and red tips is a popular spider variety that adds exotic flair to any garden.

Pompom Chrysanthemums

These charming, globe-shaped blooms feature short, tightly packed petals forming perfect little balls. Typically smaller than other varieties (1-4 inches in diameter), pompoms make excellent border plants and container specimens. ‘Button Bronze’ and ‘Yoko Ono’ are beloved pompom varieties.

Decorative Chrysanthemums

Decorative mums have flattened bloom forms with petals that curve slightly inward or outward. These versatile plants produce abundant medium to large flowers and are popular in garden borders. ‘Coral Charm’ with its salmon-colored blooms is a standout decorative variety.

Single and Semi-Double

These daisy-like chrysanthemums feature a prominent center disk surrounded by one or two layers of flat petals. They attract pollinators and blend beautifully with other fall perennials. ‘Cambodian Queen’ with its deep pink petals is a popular single variety known for its hardiness.

Anemone Chrysanthemums

Anemone mums have a unique appearance with raised center disks surrounded by several rows of flatter petals. This creates a cushioned center that adds interesting texture to gardens. ‘Daybreak’ with its apricot petals and yellow center is a beloved anemone variety.

Spoon Chrysanthemums

These whimsical blooms feature tubular petals that flatten at the ends, creating a spoon-like appearance. The unique petal structure adds visual interest to gardens and floral arrangements. ‘Kimie’ with its yellow petals and green center is a popular spoon variety that creates conversation in any garden.

Variety	Bloom Size	Bloom Time	Height	Hardiness Zones
Incurve	4-8 inches	Mid-Fall	24-36 inches	5-9
Spider	4-6 inches	Late Fall	30-48 inches	5-9
Pompom	1-4 inches	Early-Mid Fall	18-30 inches	4-9
Decorative	4-6 inches	Mid Fall	24-36 inches	5-9
Single/Semi-Double	2-3 inches	Early Fall	18-24 inches	4-9
Anemone	3-5 inches	Mid Fall	24-30 inches	5-9
Spoon	3-5 inches	Late Fall	24-36 inches	5-9

Step-by-Step Chrysanthemum Care Guide

Chrysanthemums are relatively easy to grow when provided with the right conditions. Follow this comprehensive care guide to enjoy these beautiful flowers year after year.

Planting Chrysanthemums

When to plant: Early spring is ideal for perennial mums, giving them time to establish before winter. For fall color, plant garden-ready mums in late summer.
Location: Choose a spot with full sun (at least 6 hours daily). In hot climates, light afternoon shade is beneficial.
Soil preparation: Chrysanthemums thrive in rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. Add compost or aged manure before planting.
Spacing: Plant mums 18-24 inches apart to ensure good air circulation, which helps prevent disease.
Planting depth: Set plants at the same depth they were in their containers. Planting too deep can cause stem rot.

Watering Requirements

Chrysanthemums have shallow root systems and require consistent moisture, especially during the growing season and bloom time.

New plants: Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil consistently moist until established.
Established plants: Provide 1 inch of water weekly. Increase during hot, dry periods.
Watering technique: Water at the base of plants to keep foliage dry and reduce disease risk.
Container mums: Check daily as they dry out quickly. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Fertilizing Schedule

Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) when new growth appears.
Growing season: Feed monthly with a liquid fertilizer until mid-July.
Blooming period: Switch to a high-phosphorus fertilizer (5-10-5) when flower buds form to encourage blooming.
Late season: Stop fertilizing when flower buds begin to show color to avoid leggy growth.

Pruning and Pinching

Demonstration of pinching chrysanthemums flower stems

Spring pinching: When new growth reaches 4-6 inches, pinch off the top inch to encourage branching.
Regular pinching: Continue pinching new growth every 2-3 weeks until mid-July (mid-June for early bloomers).
Disbudding: For larger blooms, remove side buds, leaving only the central bud on each stem.
Fall cleanup: After flowering, cut stems back to 6-8 inches above ground in warmer zones. In colder regions, leave the dead foliage until spring as winter protection.

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Overwintering Chrysanthemums

In Colder Climates (Zones 4-5)

After the first hard frost, cut back stems to 3-4 inches above soil.
Apply 4-6 inches of mulch (straw, pine needles, or shredded leaves) over plants.
Remove mulch gradually in spring when new growth appears.
Consider digging up and overwintering prized varieties in a cool basement or garage.

In Milder Climates (Zones 6-9)

Cut back stems to 6-8 inches after flowering completes.
Apply a light layer of mulch around the base of plants.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot during winter rains.
Divide overcrowded plants in early spring every 2-3 years.

Common Pests and Diseases

Pests

Aphids: Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider mites: Increase humidity and apply miticide if severe.
Leaf miners: Remove affected leaves and use yellow sticky traps.
Thrips: Apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Improve air circulation and apply fungicide.
Leaf spot: Remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Botrytis: Remove affected parts and ensure good ventilation.
Root rot: Improve drainage and reduce watering frequency.

Chrysanthemum Symbolism Around the World

Chrysanthemums carry different meanings across cultures, making them fascinating flowers with rich symbolic significance.

Chrysanthemums flower in traditional cultural celebration

Color	General Meaning	In Asian Cultures	In Western Cultures
Red	Love, deep passion	Celebration, good fortune	Romantic love, affection
White	Truth, loyalty	Purity, mourning (in some regions)	Sympathy, remembrance
Yellow	Joy, optimism	Imperial symbol, nobility	Friendship, well-wishes
Purple	Nobility, dignity	Respect, admiration	Get well wishes, recovery
Pink	Grace, gentleness	Longevity, happiness	Gratitude, appreciation

Cultural Significance by Country

Japan

The chrysanthemum (kiku) is Japan’s national flower and imperial emblem. The Japanese celebrate the “Festival of Happiness” annually to honor this revered bloom. In Japanese culture, the orderly unfolding of chrysanthemum petals represents perfection and the flower symbolizes longevity.

China

As one of the “Four Gentlemen” in Chinese art (along with plum blossom, orchid, and bamboo), the chrysanthemum represents autumn and the ninth lunar month. It’s associated with longevity and is traditionally used in teas and medicines to promote health and vitality.

United States

In America, chrysanthemums are the official birth flower for November and symbolize cheerfulness and friendship. They’re popular in fall decorations and gardens, representing optimism as summer transitions to winter. White chrysanthemums are often used in sympathy arrangements.

Practical Uses of Chrysanthemums

Beyond their ornamental value, chrysanthemums have numerous practical applications that have been utilized for centuries.

Chrysanthemum tea being prepared with chrysanthemums flower

Decorative Uses

Cut flowers: Chrysanthemums make excellent cut flowers, lasting 7-10 days in arrangements. Cut when blooms are partially open for longest vase life.
Dried flowers: Their sturdy petals make them ideal for dried arrangements. Hang bunches upside down in a dark, dry place for 2-3 weeks.
Garden design: Use as border plants, container specimens, or mass plantings for dramatic fall color.
Companion planting: Plant near vegetables to repel certain pests like nematodes and some insects.

Culinary Applications

Chrysanthemum tea: Dried flower petals are steeped to make a refreshing herbal tea popular in East Asia.
Edible flowers: Certain varieties have edible petals used in salads, as garnishes, or crystallized for desserts.
Chrysanthemum greens: Young leaves of some varieties are used in Asian cuisine, particularly in Korean and Japanese dishes.
Wine infusion: In China, chrysanthemum petals are sometimes added to rice wine for flavor and medicinal benefits.

Medicinal and Practical Applications

Traditional medicine: Used in Chinese medicine for centuries to treat headaches, inflammation, and fever.
Insect repellent: Pyrethrum, derived from certain chrysanthemum species, is a natural insecticide.
Air purification: NASA studies show chrysanthemums can help remove indoor air pollutants like benzene.
Aromatherapy: Essential oil extracted from chrysanthemums is used in some aromatherapy practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are chrysanthemums annual or perennial plants?

Chrysanthemums can be both annual and perennial depending on the variety and your climate. Garden mums (Chrysanthemum x morifolium) are technically perennials in USDA zones 5-9, but they’re often treated as annuals in colder regions. For best perennial performance, plant in spring to allow root establishment before winter. Florist mums (often sold in pots in fall) are less hardy and typically treated as annuals.

Why aren’t my chrysanthemums blooming?

Several factors can prevent blooming:

Insufficient light: Chrysanthemums need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Improper pinching: Pinching too late (after mid-July) can delay or prevent blooming.
Excess nitrogen: Too much nitrogen fertilizer promotes leafy growth at the expense of flowers.
Light pollution: Street lights or security lights can disrupt the short-day flowering cycle.

Are chrysanthemums toxic to pets?

Yes, chrysanthemums contain pyrethrins and other compounds that can be toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and skin irritation. Keep pets away from these plants, especially if they tend to chew on foliage. If you suspect your pet has ingested chrysanthemums, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How do I divide overgrown chrysanthemums?

Divide chrysanthemums every 2-3 years in early spring when new growth begins:

Dig up the entire plant, preserving as much of the root system as possible.
Gently shake off excess soil to expose the roots and crown.
Look for natural divisions or use a sharp knife to cut the plant into sections.
Discard the woody center and keep the outer sections with healthy roots and shoots.
Replant divisions at the same depth as the original plant, spacing 18-24 inches apart.
Water thoroughly and keep soil consistently moist until established.

Can I save seeds from my chrysanthemums?

Yes, you can collect and save chrysanthemum seeds, though many garden varieties are hybrids that won’t grow true from seed. To collect seeds:

Allow flowers to fully mature and begin to dry on the plant.
Cut flower heads and place in paper bags to complete drying.
Once completely dry, crush the flower heads to release the seeds.
Store seeds in a cool, dry place in labeled paper envelopes.
Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date in spring.

Embracing the Beauty of Chrysanthemums

With their rich history, diverse varieties, and relatively easy care requirements, chrysanthemums deserve their place as one of the world’s most beloved flowers. Whether you’re growing them for their spectacular fall blooms, their symbolic meaning, or their practical uses, these versatile plants offer something for every gardener.

By understanding the specific needs of chrysanthemums and following the care guidelines outlined in this guide, you can enjoy these magnificent flowers year after year. From the classic incurve varieties to the exotic spider forms, there’s a chrysanthemum to suit every garden style and preference.

Diverse chrysanthemums flower garden in full autumn bloom

As you plan your garden for the coming seasons, consider incorporating these “queens of fall” for a spectacular display when many other flowers have faded. Their resilience, beauty, and cultural significance make chrysanthemums truly special additions to any garden space.