Mum Chrysanthemum 'Action' (22c)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Action' is a visually striking plant characterized by its lush foliage and vibrant flowers. The leaves of this chrysanthemum are typically deep green, providing a rich backdrop for the blooms. The flowers are the standout feature, displaying a vivid array of colors that often blend together in an appealing gradient. Petal formation is dense and layered, creating an almost spherical appearance to the flower heads that brim with intricate texture. Blossoms might present a mix of shades, ranging from yellows and oranges to reds and pinks, depending on the specific variety. These colorful displays make Chrysanthemum 'Action' a popular choice for ornamental gardens and floral arrangements, offering a striking dash of color wherever it grows. The overall appearance of the plant exudes a sense of vibrancy and fullness, with a dense clustering of both foliage and flowers that form a lush mound of garden interest.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Mum, Chrysanthemum.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Action' (22c).
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Chrysanthemum 'Action' is simply chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums are not generally considered highly toxic to humans, but they can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals, and ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If any parts of the plant are ingested, particularly in large amounts, it's advisable to seek medical attention.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are considered toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. If a pet ingests this plant, they may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion could lead to more serious conditions such as depression and muscle tremors. If you suspect your pet has consumed chrysanthemum, it is important to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Spread
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: The Chrysanthemum 'Action' is known for its colorful blooms that enhance the aesthetic of gardens and indoor spaces.
- Seasonal Color: It provides vivid color in the fall when many other plants have stopped blooming.
- Diversity in Landscaping: The plant can be used in borders, container gardens, and as a specimen plant, offering versatility in garden design.
- Bee Attraction: Chrysanthemums are attractive to bees, which can help pollinate other plants in the garden.
- Easy to Grow: They are relatively easy to cultivate, which makes them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Cut Flowers: Chrysanthemum 'Action' makes excellent cut flowers due to their long vase life, adding beauty indoors.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: Artists and photographers may use the intricate structure and variety of colors of Chrysanthemums as a subject or inspiration for their works.
- Craft Projects: The petals of Chrysanthemums can be used in crafting, such as creating natural dyes for fabrics or pressed flower arrangements.
- Fall Celebrations: Chrysanthemums are a symbol of autumn and can be used in seasonal festivals or celebrations for their autumnal hues.
- Garden Companion Planting: Chrysanthemums can be planted alongside vegetables as companion plants to potentially deter pests due to their natural compounds.
- Horticultural Competitions: Chrysanthemum enthusiasts may cultivate this plant to enter into flower shows or competitive gardening events.
- Literary Symbol: Chrysanthemums can be used as a literary symbol in poetry and prose, representing concepts such as beauty, life, and the passage of time.
- Mood Setting: Their vibrant blooms and variety can help set a mood or theme in event planning or interior decorating.
- Phototoxic Properties: Some Chrysanthemums contain compounds that are phototoxic to insects and thus can be used in developing natural pest control methods.
- Teaching Tool: Chrysanthemums can be grown in classrooms or educational programs to teach children about botany and the life cycle of plants.
- Water Filtration: They can sometimes be used in constructed wetlands or other ecological projects for phytoremediation to help filter water.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe chrysanthemum is believed to bring happiness and laughter into the home, according to Feng Shui. To use it effectively, place the chrysanthemum in areas of the house that require an energetic lift or in spaces where lively conversation and gatherings occur, such as the living room.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Life and Rebirth: Chrysanthemums, often referred to as mums, are associated with life and rebirth as they bloom in the fall when many other plants are dying.
- Longevity and Immortality: In many Asian cultures, mums symbolize long life and immortality due to their hardy nature and ability to thrive in autumn.
- Love and Loyalty: In some contexts, giving someone a mum may express a sentiment of love and unwavering loyalty.
- Happiness and Joy: Their bright and cheerful appearance makes mums a symbol for bringing happiness and joy into one's life.
- Grieving and Lamentation: In several European countries, mums are considered a symbol of mourning and are commonly used in funerary arrangements.
WaterMums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Action', prefer evenly moist soil. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may be approximately every week. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. In terms of how much water to use, aim for about one gallon per week, adjusting for rainfall and temperature, as they require consistent moisture but will not tolerate waterlogged soil.
LightMums thrive in bright, direct sunlight. The ideal spot for Chrysanthemum 'Action' is in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Ensure the plant has ample light to encourage vigorous growth and abundant blooms.
TemperatureThe Chrysanthemum 'Action' can tolerate a wide temperature range but prefers an optimal daytime temperature of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that temperatures remain above 32 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent frost damage and generally below 90 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent heat stress.
PruningPrune Chrysanthemum 'Action' to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch back the tips of the stems in late spring to early summer, and deadhead regularly to promote continuous flowering. Pruning is best done before buds form, typically through July.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. A mix of two parts loam, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or sand is ideal.
RepottingGarden mums should be repotted every one to two years or when they outgrow their current container, generally after flowering or in early spring.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer moderate to high humidity levels, typically around 40-60%, avoiding excessively dry air which can lead to stress.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place mums in bright, indirect light, avoiding extreme temperatures.
Outdoor
Ensure full sun exposure and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Action', commonly known as Hardy Mum, starts its life cycle with seed germination when environmental conditions are favorable, typically in spring. As a seedling, it requires warmth, light, and moisture to establish its first set of true leaves and begins developing its root system. As it enters the vegetative stage, the Hardy Mum grows vigorously, producing multiple branches and deep green foliage with proper sunlight and nutrients. Preparing for the reproductive phase, the plant forms flower buds by responding to shorter day lengths as it approaches late summer to fall. The blossoms burst in an array of colors, characteristic of the cultivar, during the flowering stage, attracting pollinators that facilitate cross-pollination. Finally, after pollination and petal fall, the plant produces seeds and enters a period of dormancy during the colder months, completing its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Chrysanthemum 'Action', commonly known as mums, can be effectively propagated through cuttings. This method is widely practiced because it ensures that the new plants will be exact clones of the parent, thus retaining all its characteristics. To propagate mums by cuttings, one should start in the early spring when the plants are producing new, vigorous growth. Young shoots that are about 3 to 6 inches long are snipped from the parent plant. These cuttings are then stripped of their lower leaves, and the cut end can be dipped into a rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The treated cuttings are then inserted into a moistened potting mix. Keeping the soil consistently moist and providing the cuttings with indirect light will foster their growth until they have established a strong root system, at which point they can be transplanted into the garden.
