Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Beacon' (5a)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Beacon' is a striking ornamental plant that is known for its vibrant and colorful flowers. This particular variety features robust blooms that can come in a range of hues, including brilliant yellows, rich purples, bold reds, and soft pinks. Each flower is composed of numerous individual petals that radiate outward from the center, creating a full and lush appearance. The petals have a smooth texture and may exhibit varying degrees of curvature, with some being more spoon-shaped and others displaying a more traditional, flat layout. The center of the flower, or the disk, is typically a contrasting color, often adorned with small, tubular florets that stand in contrast to the larger ray petals surrounding it. The foliage of the Chrysanthemum 'Beacon' is equally pleasing, with leaves that are deep green and deeply lobed, sometimes with a slightly serrated edge. The leaves envelop the sturdy stems, which rise up from the base of the plant. The overall impression is one of abundance and festive coloration, making the Chrysanthemum 'Beacon' a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their landscape.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Hardy Chrysanthemum, Garden Mum, Florist's Chrysanthemum, Hardy Mum
Common names
Dendranthema 'Beacon', Chrysanthemum morifolium 'Beacon'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Chrysanthemum, also commonly known as mum or chrysanth, is considered to have low toxicity to humans. However, ingestion of any part of the plant may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Contact with the plant can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals. It is advisable to handle the plant with care and to avoid ingesting it.
To pets
The Chrysanthemum or mum plant is toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. Consuming any part of the plant can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can cause neurological symptoms or an allergic reaction. Pet owners should keep chrysanthemums out of reach of their animals to prevent poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-3 feet (30-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant color to gardens with its bright, daisy-like flowers.
- Variety of Uses: Suitable for borders, containers, and as cut flowers in arrangements.
- Long Blooming Period: Blooms from late summer to fall, providing extended garden interest.
- Attracts Pollinators: Invites bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, can withstand periods of low water, reducing maintenance needs.
- Easy to Grow: Adaptable to a wide range of soils and can thrive in both full sun and part shade conditions.
- Pest Resistance: Resilient against many common garden pests, limiting the need for chemical treatments.
- Cold Hardy: Able to survive and even thrive in cooler temperatures, extending its growing range.
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 Displays: The vibrant blooms of the Chrysanthemum can be dried and used in creating colorful, textured works of art, including wall hangings and mixed-media pieces.
- Natural Dyes: The petals of Chrysanthemums contain pigments that can be extracted and used as natural dyes for fabrics or paper.
- Companion Planting: Chrysanthemums can be planted in gardens to help deter pests as they are companion plants for many vegetables, potentially reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
- Garden Aesthetic: Aside from their traditional ornamental role, these flowers can be creatively arranged in patterns and shapes to create living garden mosaics or borders.
- Photography: The intricate details and vivid colors of Chrysanthemums make them excellent subjects for macro photography, allowing artists to showcase the beauty of nature.
- Culinary Garnish: Although you shouldn't ingest plants not specifically grown for consumption, Chrysanthemum petals can be used as a decorative garnish for dishes, provided they are pesticide-free.
- Floral Crafts: The sturdy nature of Chrysanthemum stems and leaves allows them to be used in crafting, such as creating natural wreaths or in basketry.
- Festive Decorations: In some cultures, Chrysanthemums are used to create festive decorations for events like the Day of the Dead or during certain East Asian festivals.
- Education and Research: Chrysanthemums can be used as model organisms in studies related to genetics, plant biology, and horticulture due to their diverse and well-documented breeding history.
- Soil Erosion Control: When planted in mass, Chrysanthemums can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion due to their dense growth habit.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui practice to promote happiness and well-being. It is associated with joy and is believed to carry yang energy. Place the Chrysanthemum in areas where you want to introduce positive energy, such as living rooms or offices, to enhance mental clarity and drive away negative energy.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Loyalty and Devotion: Chrysanthemums, often called mums, symbolize loyalty and devoted love. They are often given to symbolize a strong and lasting friendship or romantic relationship.
- Longevity and Immortality: In some cultures, especially in Asia, mums are a symbol of life and immortality. Their long-lasting nature is a metaphor for a long and healthy life.
- Rebirth and Renewal: Mums bloom in the fall when many other plants are dying. This has led them to be associated with rebirth and new beginnings.
- Joy and Optimism: Bright and cheerful, mums are given to convey happiness and a positive outlook on the future.
- Nobility: In some societies, the chrysanthemum is associated with nobility and elegance, and is often used in artistic depictions to convey a sense of refinement.
- Death and Grief: In some European countries, chrysanthemums are symbolic of death and are used as memorial flowers to honor those who have passed away.
WaterMums, including Chrysanthemum 'Beacon', need consistent moisture, so water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, watering once a week with about one gallon of water per square yard should suffice; however, in hotter and drier conditions, they may require more frequent watering. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plants. In the fall, as temperatures drop, you can reduce watering to help harden off the plants before winter.
LightMums thrive in full sunlight, so place Chrysanthemum 'Beacon' in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. They can tolerate light shade, especially in hot climates, but insufficient light may result in a weaker, leggier plant. The best spot for a mum is one where morning sun dries the dew on the leaves, helping to prevent disease.
TemperatureMums prefer temperate conditions and Chrysanthemum 'Beacon' is no exception, thriving in daytime temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minor dips below freezing and are hardy to zone 5a, but prolonged exposure to extreme cold or heat can harm the plant. Ideal growing conditions will remain within this temperature range throughout the growing season.
PruningPrune mums, including Chrysanthemum 'Beacon', to encourage a bushier plant with more blooms. Pinch back the tips of the stems in late spring to early summer, when they're about 6 inches tall, and repeat every two to three weeks until mid-July. After flowering, cut back the stems to about 4 inches above ground level to prepare the plant for winter dormancy. The best time for major pruning is just before new growth begins in the spring.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe optimal soil mix for the Mum 'Beacon' should be well-draining and fertile, with a composition of loamy garden soil mixed with organic compost and peat moss to improve fertility and drainage. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0. Regular checks and amendments to maintain the pH are beneficial for plant health.
RepottingMums 'Beacon' should be repotted every one to two years to replenish the soil and provide room for growth. Spring is the best time for repotting, just before the growing season begins. If the plant has outgrown its container or the soil becomes compacted, it may require more frequent repotting.
Humidity & MistingMums 'Beacon' prefer moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%. They can tolerate some fluctuation in humidity but avoiding extremes will ensure better growth and flower production. In very dry indoor conditions, consider using a humidifier or placing a water tray near the plant to maintain adequate moisture in the air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Mum 'Beacon' in bright, indirect light and water when soil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant Mum 'Beacon' in ample sunlight, well-draining soil, spring or fall.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Beacon', commonly referred to as Hardy Mum or Garden Mum, starts its life cycle as a seed or as a vegetative cutting. After germination or rooting, the young plant enters a vegetative growth stage, forming a compact bush with deeply lobed leaves. As it matures, the plant undergoes a transition to the budding stage under shorter day conditions, usually in late summer to early fall, where flower buds develop and start to show color. Full bloom occurs when these buds open to reveal the characteristic daisy-like flowers that come in a variety of colors. After flowering, the plant sets seeds if pollination occurs, while vegetative propagation can also be done through division or cuttings to maintain desirable cultivar traits. Post-bloom, the Chrysanthemum 'Beacon' enters a period of dormancy during the winter, especially in colder climates designated as zone 5a, and may require mulching for protection until the cycle recommences in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Chrysanthemum 'Beacon', commonly known as a type of Hardy Mum or Garden Mum, can be propagated during late spring or early summer when the plants are in active growth and not yet blooming. The most popular method of propagation for this variety is through division. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established mum plant and gently separate the mass of roots into smaller sections, each with several shoots and an ample portion of the root system. These sections can then be replanted in well-draining soil, ensuring that they are spaced appropriately to allow for growth and air circulation. It is important to keep the new plants well-watered, especially during the first few weeks after transplanting, to ensure they establish themselves in their new location.
