Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Amber Enbee Wedding' (29d)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Amber Enbee Wedding' is a captivating variety that showcases an array of warm amber-colored blooms. The flowers are characterized by a multitude of layered petals that elegantly unfold from a central button, creating a lush, full-bodied appearance. Each petal exhibits a soft gradient of color, ranging from a deeper, rich hue at the base, gently transitioning to a delicate, lighter tip, conjuring an image of a serene autumn sunset. These floriferous mums form a lush mound of foliage that serves as a striking backdrop to their showy flowers. The leaves are a deep green, with a typical chrysanthemum shape: slightly lobed and with jagged edges, presenting a slightly coarse texture that contrasts well with the smoothness of the petals. The overall display of the plant suggests a festive abundance and it commonly blooms in the period leading up to winter, providing a much-appreciated splash of color in the garden when many other plants have ended their show for the year.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
No common names available.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Amber Enbee Wedding'.
- Toxicity
To humans
Chrysanthemums are generally considered to have low toxicity to humans. However, if parts of the plant are ingested, it could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some individuals, particularly those with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family, touching the plant or its sap could lead to dermatitis or skin irritation. While poisoning from chrysanthemums is not commonly reported, it is advisable to avoid ingesting parts of the plant and to handle it with care if you have plant allergies.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. They contain compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, dermatitis, and lack of coordination if ingested. In some cases, ingestion can also lead to more severe symptoms such as depression. Toxicity is typically mild to moderate in nature, but it is still important to prevent your pets from ingesting any part of the plant and to seek veterinary attention if you suspect your pet has eaten chrysanthemums.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Amber
Height
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Visual Appeal: Adds aesthetic value to gardens with its vibrant amber-yellow flowers and lush foliage.
- Extended Blooming Season: Offers longer periods of visual interest compared to some other plants, often flowering from early summer to late fall.
- Versatility in Landscaping: Suitable for borders, pots, and as cut flowers, allowing for diverse garden design and indoor decoration.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators that are essential for the health of gardens and ecosystems.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it a convenient choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping and regions with water restrictions.
- Cold Hardy: Can survive in cooler climates, making it a robust addition to a variety of garden zones.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Photography Prop: Chrysanthemums like 'Amber Enbee Wedding' are photogenic and can be used by photographers to add a splash of color and texture to still life compositions or portrait backgrounds.
- Artistic Inspiration: The vibrant colors and intricate petal patterns of the Chrysanthemum can inspire artists and designers looking for natural beauty to incorporate into their work.
- Fish Tanks: Certain types of Chrysanthemums can be used in fish tanks to provide natural decoration, though they should not be submerged and are only to be used decoratively around the tank.
- Culinary Decoration: Petals of Chrysanthemums can be used to decorate cakes and pastries for an elegant and edible garnish, after ensuring they are free from any harmful pesticides.
- Bookmarks: Dried Chrysanthemum flowers can be pressed and laminated to create unique and beautiful bookmarks.
- Homemade Potpourri: Dried Chrysanthemum petals can be mixed with other dried flowers and spices to make a fragrant potpourri for the home.
- Crafting Material: The petals and full blooms can be used in various DIY crafting projects, like making floral wreaths or incorporating them into homemade greeting cards.
- Dye Source: Chrysanthemum flowers can be boiled to extract natural dyes for fabric or paper, resulting in soft, often earth-toned colors.
- Decorative Table Scatter: Petals of the Chrysanthemum can be scattered on tables for events like weddings or parties for added natural décor.
- Educational Tool: Chrysanthemum plants can be used in schools or educational programs to teach students about plant biology, life cycles, and horticulture.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui to attract positive energy and to counteract negative chi. It's often placed in living areas to promote happiness and a light-hearted mood, or in offices to enhance focus and intellectual pursuits. Its bright flowers are considered symbols of optimism and longevity.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and sometimes even immortality due to their hardy nature and ability to thrive in various conditions.
- Rejuvenation and Recovery: In some cultures, they symbolize the ability to recover or the return of vitality, echoing the flower's regrowth each year.
- Loyalty and Devotion: Their long-lasting nature also translates into a symbol of commitment and faithfulness in relationships.
- Death and Grief: In Europe, chrysanthemums are often associated with remembrance and are used to honor the dead, representing grief or an expression of sympathy.
- Nobility and Elegance: In Japan, the flower is noble and considered to be of high esteem, linked to the imperial family and featured in festivals celebrating the nation’s culture.
- Optimism and Joy: They are also seen as symbols of cheerfulness and positivity, their bright blooms bringing light to the darker days of autumn.
- Water
Mums, or Chrysanthemums, prefer even moisture and should be watered regularly. The 'Amber Enbee Wedding' variety should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically about once a week, but this may vary depending on temperature and humidity. Provide enough water to moisten the soil thoroughly; for potted plants, this may be approximately 32 ounces every watering session. Reduce watering in the winter when the plant is not actively growing. Overwatering or allowing the plant to sit in water can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage.
- Light
Mums thrive in full sunlight with at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. The 'Amber Enbee Wedding' should be placed in a location where it can receive plenty of light without being shaded by other plants or structures. Adequate light is essential for the plant to develop strong stems and vibrant flowers.
- Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Mums, including the 'Amber Enbee Wedding,' is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. These plants can survive short periods outside this range but perform best within it. Ensure they are protected from extreme temperatures, as they can be damaged by frost below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or stressed by heat above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Pruning
Pruning Mums, such as the 'Amber Enbee Wedding' variety, is essential for maintaining a bushy, compact shape and promoting vigorous flowering. Pinch back the tips of new growth in late spring to early summer; this will encourage branching. After flowering, cut back the stems to about 6 inches to prepare the plant for winter and encourage healthy growth the following season. Prune again in the spring to remove any dead or damaged tissue.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
The best soil mix for Chrysanthemum, commonly known as Mum, is a well-draining potting mix with added organic matter such as compost. A soil pH of 6.5 to 6.7 is ideal to ensure nutrient availability.
- Repotting
Mums should be repotted every one to two years in spring to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth, ensure healthy plants.
- Humidity & Misting
Mums thrive best in moderate humidity levels, approximately between 40-60%, avoiding excessively dry or damp conditions.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and moderate watering for indoor Mums.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, provide ample water and fertile soil for outdoor Mums.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
- Life cycle
Chrysanthemum 'Amber Enbee Wedding', commonly known as Amber Chrysanthemum, begins its life cycle as a seed or more commonly from cuttings, which upon planting will sprout and emerge as seedlings. The plants then enter a vegetative state where leaf growth is vigorous, and they develop a robust root system to support future blooms. Following the vegetative phase, chrysanthemums enter the budding stage where flower buds begin to form, influenced by shorter day lengths in late summer to fall. The buds bloom into the distinctive full, rounded flowers that may come in a variety of colors, with 'Amber Enbee Wedding' being known for its rich amber hue. After flowering, the plant enters senescence where leaves and flowers may wither, and the plant prepares for dormancy over winter, especially in climates with colder temperatures. In spring, if the plant has been properly overwintered, it can be divided or pruned to promote new growth and begin the cycle anew.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Chrysanthemum 'Amber Enbee Wedding', commonly known as the mum, can be propagated effectively using the division method, which is a popular technique for this perennial flowering plant. This process is ideally carried out in the spring when new growth appears. To begin, dig up the mature plant carefully, ensuring that the root ball remains intact. Gently split the root ball into smaller sections, each equipped with a fair amount of roots and several shoots. Replant these divisions immediately in well-preparing potting soil, spacing them at least a foot apart (which is approximately 30 centimeters) to allow room for growth. Careful watering is crucial after replanting to help the new divisions establish and to prevent stress. Through division, not only can gardeners propagate their mums effectively, but they can also rejuvenate older plants that have started to diminish in vigor.