More correctly known as chrysanthemums, these adaptable perennials are one of our most popular fall flowers, flooding garden centers starting in August. In many parts of the country, they offer one of the last splashes of color before winter arrives. For the next two or so months, chrysanthemums can liven up and complement the containers you planted in spring, now looking a bit straggly and tired from the heat. With their versatile color choices, mums will give your patio or balcony a fresh fall look.
Mums, though seen everywhere, are not just your simple garden flower. There are about 160 different species of chrysanthemums and the National Chrysanthemum Society divides bloom forms into 13 classes. The most familiar species, the one you’ll most likely see at garden centers, is the florists’ chrysanthemum or Chrysanthemum xmorifolium which struts its stuff in white, yellow, pink, orange, red, bronze, purple, lavender and multicolors. Blooms on mums are really made up of hundreds of flowers called florets, with both ray florets, which are like petals on a daisy, and disc florets, which are the center part. Of the 13 bloom classes, several are globular, like the Homecoming corsages; there are also spiders with long tubular florets which hook at the ends; spoons with tubular florets flattened at the tips; single or daisy form; and quills with long, narrow rolled florets.
The plants have aromatic, dark green leaves that are slightly rough to the touch. Most varieties grow to 18-24 inches, although some can grow to 4 feet; all maintain a bushy shape.
ANCIENT BEGINNINGS
Chrysanthemums are rich in history, dating back to the 15th century BC. First described in Chinese writings, they were characterized as a flowering herb, used as a tea and a headache remedy and believed by the Chinese to have the power of life. Chrysanthemums moved to Japan around the 8th century AD where they were so favored, they became the crest and seal of the Emperor. A testament to their popularity, there are still chrysanthemum festivals in Japan today. Continuing their horticultural journey, mums arrived in the western world in the 17th century where the Greeks named them chrysos meaning gold and anthemion meaning flower.
EASY CARE
One of the positive attributes of the chrysanthemum is its easy care requirements and few insect or disease problems. Give it full sun, at least 5-6 hours per day, and sufficient water and air circulation, and you’ll be rewarded with lush blooms from mid-September right up to frost. Good air flow around the plant is important to keep the leaves dry and prevent mildew. Mums are thirsty, especially in a container, and they don’t like their soil to dry out. When the soil starts to dry out, soak them well. Don’t over-water, however, or you’ll end up with root rot and yellow leaves that drop from the plant. Water early in the day to give the leaves time to dry. If the leaves start to droop and wilt, that is a sure sign that the plant is not getting enough water. Mums wilt easily, but if you catch them early enough, the leaves will perk back up after a good drink.
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