Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Boulevard Bronze' (PBR)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Boulevard Bronze' is a striking flowering plant known for its lush foliage complemented by vibrant bronze-colored blooms that add a warm, autumnal touch to any garden. The leaves are deeply lobed, creating a textured green backdrop for the flowers. Each flower is made up of numerous petals that radiate from the center, creating a dome-shaped or pompom-like appearance. The bronze hue of the blooms varies depending on the stage of the flower, with shades that can range from a soft amber to a rich, burnt orange. The overall effect is that of a dense, mounded plant bursting with richly colored flowers, which can transform a garden space with their seasonal charm. The 'Boulevard Bronze' variety is particularly bred for its color and form, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of fall color to their displays.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
None available.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Boulevard Bronze' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are not considered highly toxic to humans; however, they can cause dermatitis or skin rashes in some sensitive individuals. If ingested, they may cause mild irritation to the mouth, stomach, or intestines, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It's important to keep them out of reach from children who might be tempted to eat the plant.
To pets
Chrysanthemums, commonly referred to as mums, are toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats. If ingested, symptoms of poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion may lead to more serious symptoms such as depression and muscle tremors. If you suspect your pet has ingested mums, it is important to contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Bronze
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Adds a splash of bronze color to gardens, which is particularly striking in fall.
- Long Blooming Period: Offers flowers from late summer through fall, providing extended visual interest in the landscape.
- Attracts Pollinators: Serves as a food source for beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it a good choice for gardeners of all experience levels.
- Versatility: Can be used in borders, pots, or as cut flowers, providing flexibility in garden design and indoor decoration.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Chrysanthemum tea: In East Asian countries, dried chrysanthemum flowers are steeped in hot water to make a soothing tea with a slightly floral aroma.
- Natural dye: The petals of the chrysanthemum can be used to create a natural yellow or green dye for fabrics, depending on the mordant used.
- Bioindicator: Chrysanthemums can be used as bioindicators to monitor environmental conditions, including the presence of certain pollutants in the environment.
- Art and photography: The striking colors and patterns of chrysanthemums are often used as subjects in botanical art and photography.
- Garden insect control: Chrysanthemum flowers contain compounds that are known to repel certain insects, making them useful in garden pest management.
- Companion planting: Chrysanthemums can be used in companion planting to enhance the growth of other plants and help deter pests from them.
- Festive decorations: Chrysanthemum flowers are popular in seasonal autumn arrangements and are used to decorate during festivals such as the Chinese Double Ninth Festival.
- Floral flavoring: Chrysanthemum petals are sometimes used to impart a subtle floral flavor to delicate desserts or specialty dishes.
- Culinary garnish: The bright blossoms can be used as an edible garnish for salads and to add color to culinary presentations.
- Potpourri ingredient: Dried chrysanthemum flowers can be added to potpourri mixes for their fragrance and decorative appeal.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChrysanthemums are associated with happiness and well-being in Feng Shui, and using Bronze Chrysanthemums can introduce an energy of joy and relaxation into a space. They are often recommended for the living room or areas of the home where families gather to enhance positivity and encourage healthy relationships.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Rejuvenation: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and the rejuvenating powers of nature, hinting at the plant's ability to bloom in autumn when many other plants are fading.
- Loyalty and Devotion: In some cultures, the Chrysanthemum is a symbol of commitment and fidelity, making it a popular gift among friends and loved ones to express steadfast loyalty.
- Nobility and Elegance: Particularly in Asian cultures, the Chrysanthemum is associated with nobility and refined taste, representing the plant's graceful appearance and its status as a symbol of the imperial family in Japan.
- Hope and Optimism: As the Chrysanthemum can withstand cooler temperatures and blooms generously, it symbolizes hope and the power of positive thinking, blessing us with its colors when the days grow short.
WaterHardy mums like Chrysanthemum 'Boulevard Bronze' require even moisture, but it's important not to overwater them. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about one gallon of water per session, ensuring that the soil is moist but not soggy. During hot and dry periods, they may need additional water, but always check the soil moisture first. Avoid wetting the foliage as this can lead to fungal diseases. It's best to water in the morning to allow any excess moisture on the leaves to evaporate during the day.
LightMums thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sun each day to bloom optimally. The ideal location for Chrysanthemum 'Boulevard Bronze' would be in a spot where they can soak in the morning sun while being protected from the harsh afternoon heat, especially in warmer climates. Avoid planting in areas with shaded or overly bright, reflected light to encourage healthy growth and maximal flowering.
TemperatureChrysanthemum 'Boulevard Bronze' prefers a temperature range between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. They can tolerate colder temperatures down to 32 degrees Fahrenheit, but frost can damage the plants. During hot summer days, temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit may cause stress, so providing some afternoon shade can help protect them during heat extremes.
PruningPruning Chrysanthemum 'Boulevard Bronze' encourages a more compact plant with increased blooms. Pinch back the tips of stems by an inch when the plants reach about 6 inches tall, repeating every few weeks until mid-summer. This helps prevent legginess. Pruning is not necessary once the buds develop, typically stopping around late July to allow flower buds to form for autumn blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.5 to 6.7. A mix of peat, perlite, and organic compost is ideal to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer moderate humidity levels, around 40-60% is ideal for Chrysanthemum 'Boulevard Bronze'.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in bright light, away from drafts, water regularly.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, shelter from strong winds, ensure good drainage.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA.
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Chrysanthemum 'Boulevard Bronze', commonly known as Hardy Mum, begins with germination from seed or propagation from cuttings, typically in late winter or spring. As spring progresses, the plant enters a vegetative growth stage, establishing a robust root system and producing lush, green foliage. During the summer, the plant continues to grow and may require pinching to promote bushier growth and more prolific flowering. By late summer to fall, the Hardy Mum enters its flowering stage, showcasing bronze-colored blooms that last until frost. After flowering, the plant goes into dormancy during the winter, with the top growth dying back and the plant surviving through its underground structures. In the following spring, the life cycle restarts as the plant regenerates from its roots or is propagated anew for another year's growth and bloom.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Chrysanthemum 'Boulevard Bronze', often referred to simply as a chrysanthemum, is typically propagated by cuttings, which is the most popular method due to its effectiveness in producing true-to-type plants. The ideal time for taking cuttings for chrysanthemums is late winter to early spring, when the plant is starting its active growth phase. To propagate by cuttings, a gardener should select healthy shoots about 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) long, ensuring each cutting has at least two or three pairs of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end of the stem is dipped into a rooting hormone to enhance root development. Then, the prepared cuttings are then inserted into a well-draining soil mix or a propagation tray, and the environment is kept humid with a consistent temperature of about 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit (21-24 degrees Celsius) to encourage rooting, which often occurs within a few weeks.
