Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Baltazar'
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Baltazar', more commonly known as the mum, is a captivating plant renowned for its stunning flowers. The blooms are the centerpiece of appeal on this plant, featuring a unique, rich color palette that often includes shades of vibrant red, deep purple, or bold bronze. The petals on the flowers of the 'Baltazar' variety can have a strikingly quilted appearance, curving inward towards the center in a way that gives each bloom a sense of depth and density. The overall form of the flower can be likened to a pom-pom, with many layers of petals creating a full, rounded shape that adds texture and volume to the plant's profile. Each individual flower is composed of numerous small petals that are tightly clustered, projecting a lush and plush appearance. The foliage of the mum 'Baltazar' is no less impressive, with its leaves displaying a rich, deep green hue that perfectly frames and accentuates the beauty of the flowers. The leaves themselves are generally compact, with a somewhat serrated edge, providing a subtle yet attractive contrast to the softness of the blooms. The branching habit of the 'Baltazar' mum is sturdy, with stems that hold the flowers aloft, showcasing the floral display. The plant exhibits a bushy growth, which contributes to its lush and hearty appearance. This variety of mum can be a delightful addition to a variety of settings, including garden beds, borders, containers, and is also often used in cut-flower arrangements where its long-lasting blooms are especially cherished.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Baltazar Chrysanthemum, Baltazar Mum, Baltazar Daisy.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Baltazar'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Chrysanthemum plant is generally considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. However, some people may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation upon contact with the plant's sap. If ingested, parts of the chrysanthemum plant can cause gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, more severe symptoms can occur, especially if a person has a significant sensitivity or allergy to the plant.
To pets
Chrysanthemum plants are toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. If a pet ingests part of a chrysanthemum, they may experience symptoms of pyrethrin or pyrethroid toxicity, which can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, Tremors, hypersalivation, dermatitis, and in severe cases, seizures. If you suspect your pet has ingested chrysanthemum, it is important to seek veterinary care promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant colors and unique textures to gardens or landscapes.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees and butterflies, which help pollinate other plants.
- Easy to Grow: Adaptable to various soil types and climate conditions.
- Long Blooming Period: Provides extended seasonal interest with prolonged flowering times.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, can withstand periods of low water availability.
- Cultural Significance: Often used in festivals and celebrations, symbolizing joy and beauty.
- Garden Structure: Can provide form and structure to garden designs throughout the year.
- Companion Planting: Can be planted alongside other species to create diverse and resilient garden ecosystems.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The flowers of the chrysanthemum can be used to produce a natural yellow or gold dye for textiles.
- Insect Repellent: Chrysanthemum extracts can be used in gardens and on skin as a natural insect repellent due to the presence of pyrethrin.
- Biological Pest Control: Some gardeners use chrysanthemum plants to naturally control harmful insects due to their insecticidal properties.
- Companion Planting: Chrysanthemums can be planted among vegetables to deter pests, promote healthy growth, and enhance biodiversity.
- Art and Craft: Dried chrysanthemum flowers are sometimes used in potpourri or can be pressed and included in paper crafts or art projects.
- Culinary Garnish: Edible varieties of chrysanthemums can be used as a bright and attractive garnish for culinary dishes.
- Photography Subjects: The unique patterns and colors of chrysanthemum flowers make them popular subjects for photography and botanical illustration.
- Aquatic Plant Fertilizer: Decomposed chrysanthemum plants can serve as a nutrient-rich organic fertilizer for water plants.
- Fragrance Production: Chrysanthemum scent, though not commonly used as a commercial perfume, can be extracted and used in homemade fragrances.
- Symbolic Gifts: In some cultures, chrysanthemums are given as gifts to symbolize longevity, rejuvenation, and the support of friends.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui to promote happiness and well-being, often placed in living areas to introduce Yang (positive) energy, and can be used in the center of the home or office for balance and harmony.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: The Chrysanthemum, often referred to simply as 'mum', traditionally symbolizes long life and well-being, as it is known for its hardiness and ability to flourish in various climates.
- Rebirth: As 'mums' bloom in the fall, they often represent rebirth and new beginnings, making them a symbol of optimism and joy in the face of the end of the growing season.
- Love and loyalty: In several cultures, Chrysanthemums are given on anniversaries and special occasions as they express feelings of love and devoted loyalty, influenced by their enduring and steadfast nature.
- Death and mourning: In some European countries, such as France and Italy, Chrysanthemums are symbolic of death and are used predominantly for funerals or to honor those who have passed away.
- Nobility: In Asian cultures, particularly in Japan, the 'mum' is a noble flower. It represents perfection and, due to its orderly unfolding of petals, integrity and character.
WaterMum plants, including the Chrysanthemum 'Baltazar', should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which usually equates to once every 2-3 days during active growth, depending on the climate and weather conditions. Provide enough water so that it reaches the roots, but avoid waterlogging the plant. An estimated 1-2 gallons per week would satisfy their watering needs, always ensuring that the plant has proper drainage to avoid root rot. During the cooler months, reduce the amount of water to prevent disease and overwatering.
LightMums thrive in full sun conditions, which means they should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for Chrysanthemum 'Baltazar' is in an area where it can enjoy morning sun with some protection from intense afternoon rays, especially in hot climates. They can tolerate some partial shade, but flowering may not be as prolific without adequate sunlight.
TemperatureMums prefer moderate temperatures and the Chrysanthemum 'Baltazar' is no different. They can generally survive short periods of colder weather, down to about 32 degrees Fahrenheit, but the ideal growing conditions are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It is essential to protect the plant from frost, and it should not be exposed to temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit for prolonged periods as this can cause stress and wilting.
PruningPruning mums, like the Chrysanthemum 'Baltazar', encourages bushier growth and more blooms. It is best to prune or pinch them back in late spring or early summer, removing the tips of the stems to help the plant branch out. Regular deadheading of spent flowers will also promote continued blooming. Prune mums again after they finish flowering to tidy the plant and prepare it for winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of two parts peat or leaf mold with one part garden soil and one part perlite or vermiculite is ideal for Chrysanthemums to promote good drainage and aeration.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years to ensure adequate root space and nutrient availability. However, after blooming is when mums typically benefit from repotting and root division to maintain plant health.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer moderate humidity levels, ranging from 40% to 60%. They can tolerate some variation, but it's best to avoid extremely high humidity to prevent disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place mums in bright, indirect light; water when topsoil feels dry.
Outdoor
Plant mums in full sun with well-draining soil; water as needed.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Chrysanthemum 'Baltazar', commonly known as a mum or chrysanthemum, begins with seed germination, where the seeds sprout when exposed to the correct temperature and moisture conditions. Following germination, the seedlings establish themselves with true leaves and develop into young plants during the vegetative growth stage. As the plants mature, they enter the budding phase, where flower buds form and start to swell. This progresses to the flowering stage, where the buds open to reveal the characteristic vibrant blooms that can vary in color. After flowering, the plant enters a period of senescence, where the flowers fade and the plant prepares to go dormant or die back, depending on whether it is treated as an annual or a perennial. If perennial, the plant may enter a dormancy period during colder months before restarting its growth cycle with the return of favorable conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Chrysanthemum 'Baltazar', commonly known as mums, is through cuttings. The ideal time to propagate mums by cuttings is in the spring when the plants are producing new, succulent growth. To propagate, a gardener would take a 4 to 6-inch (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) cutting from the tip of a stem, making a clean cut just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are then removed, and the cut end is dipped into rooting hormone before being inserted into a moistened potting mix. The cutting should then be placed in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight to encourage root development, ensuring the soil remains damp but not waterlogged. Roots typically form within a couple of weeks, after which the new little mum plant can be transplanted into its final location.
