Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Boulou Bronze'
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Boulou Bronze' is a captivating ornamental plant known for its distinctive floral display. The blossoms of this variety present a luxurious bronze hue that can add a rich, warm color to any garden space. Each flower is composed of numerous individual petals that are arranged in a dense, overlapping fashion, often creating a pompom-like effect that is typical of many chrysanthemum varieties. The petals have a soft and delicate texture, which can vary from being somewhat flat to having a slightly quilled shape, giving the blooms a fuller appearance. The leaves of the Chrysanthemum 'Boulou Bronze' are deep green, providing a striking contrast with the bronze-colored flowers. These leaves are typically lobed or deeply divided, with edges that may appear slightly toothed or jagged. They contribute to the lush foliage that forms a backdrop to the vivid floral spectacle. Overall, the Chrysanthemum 'Boulou Bronze' is a showy plant that is prized for its autumnal color and full, rounded flowers. Its striking bronze petals and vibrant green foliage make it a favorite among gardeners seeking to create an inviting and colorful landscape during the blooming season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mum, Chrysanth, Hardy Garden Mum
Common names
Dendranthema grandiflorum, Chrysanthemum morifolium, Ajania pacifica
ToxicityTo humans
The common name of Chrysanthemum 'Boulou Bronze' is simply chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums, in general, can be toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains pyrethrins, which can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals when touched. If ingested, the plant can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of coordination. In severe cases, it might lead to more serious conditions, such as inflammation or damage to the kidneys and liver. Therefore, precaution should be taken to prevent the ingestion of chrysanthemums.
To pets
The common name of Chrysanthemum 'Boulou Bronze' is chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. The toxic compounds in chrysanthemums are pyrethrins, and ingestion can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion may result in depression, tremors, or more significant signs of systemic illness. It is important to keep chrysanthemums out of reach of pets and to contact a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Chrysanthemum 'Boulou Bronze', commonly known as mums, adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens with its unique bronze-colored flowers.
- Seasonal Interest: Mums are known for their autumn blooming, providing late-season color when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Attracts Pollinators: Their blossoms attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, supporting the local ecosystem.
- Easy to Grow: Mums are relatively low maintenance and can thrive in a variety of conditions, making them suitable for novice and experienced gardeners alike.
- Versatile Planting: These flowers can be planted in beds, borders, containers and make excellent cut flowers for floral arrangements.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, mums have a degree of drought resistance, requiring less frequent watering.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Art and Craft Inspiration: The vibrant bronze color of Chrysanthemums can inspire artists and crafters to create paintings, floral designs, or even fabric patterns that mirror their unique hue.
- Culinary Decoration: The petals of some Chrysanthemum varieties are edible and can be used to add a splash of color and slight bitterness to salads or as a garnish on fancy dishes.
- Organic Dye: The petals can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics or paper, imparting a soft, earthy tone derived from the bronze pigment.
- Photography Subject: Their striking appearance makes Chrysanthemums a popular subject for photographers, particularly in autumn-themed compositions.
- Symbolic Gift: In some cultures, Chrysanthemums are given as gifts to symbolize longevity and joy, making them a thoughtful present for various occasions.
- Feng Shui Plant: Chrysanthemums are believed to bring happiness and laughter to the home, according to Feng Shui, making them a good choice for home decor.
- Aromatherapy: While not medicinal, the scent of Chrysanthemums can be used in aromatherapy to create a relaxing atmosphere in the home or office.
- Learning Tools: Chrysanthemums can be used in educational settings to teach botany and horticulture, providing hands-on learning about plant growth and maintenance.
- Companion Planting: Chrysanthemums can be planted alongside vegetables in gardens as they are believed to deter certain pests due to their natural compounds.
- Event Theming: Chrysanthemums, with their autumnal tones, can be used to create themed event decorations such as for fall weddings or harvest festivals.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChrysanthemums are associated with happiness and well-being in Feng Shui. They can be used to bring positive energy into the home when placed in the living room or in spaces where fresh energy is desired. The color bronze of the 'Boulou Bronze' would be connected to the earth element, suggesting stability and nurturing, making it suitable for areas of the home where grounding is needed, such as the center or the northeast sector.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Loyalty: Chrysanthemums are often given to represent loyalty and devoted love, making them ideal for conveying steadfast affection.
- Longevity: The plant symbolizes longevity and endurance due to its hardy nature and ability to bloom into the fall, when other flowers have wilted.
- Rebirth: In some cultures, chrysanthemums signify rebirth and new life, as they are one of the few plants that bloom vibrantly as the colder months approach.
- Honesty: Sometimes, chrysanthemums also represent honesty, encouraging individuals to be truthful and straightforward in their dealings.
- Death: In certain European countries, chrysanthemums are symbolic of death and are used to honor lives lost; this contrasts with more positive meanings in other contexts.
WaterMums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Boulou Bronze', should be watered regularly to maintain evenly moist soil, particularly during active growing seasons. In general, water mums deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 gallon of water per plant for each watering session. Be mindful to avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of diseases. During periods of drought or extreme heat, increase the frequency of watering. Always adjust watering based on weather conditions, as overwatering can lead to root rot.
LightMums prefer bright, indirect sunlight and will thrive best in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. A spot that offers morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal to protect them from the intense midday heat, while still providing the light needed for optimal growth and flower development.
TemperatureMums are hardy in a range between 32°F and 90°F, but they flourish when daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F. Mums can handle light frosts, but they should be protected from extreme cold temperatures below the freezing point, as it can damage the plant.
PruningPrune mums in the early spring, removing dead or weak stems to encourage bushy growth and more blooms. Throughout the growing season, pinch back the tips of the stems to promote branching, which leads to a fuller plant. Stop pinching by midsummer to allow flower buds to form for fall blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for mums (Chrysanthemum 'Boulou Bronze') should be well-draining and fertile, with a mix of loam, organic matter such as peat moss or compost, and sharp sand to improve drainage. The ideal pH range for mums is slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingMums (Chrysanthemum 'Boulou Bronze') generally need to be repotted every one to two years, ideally in the spring before the growing season begins. It's important to use fresh potting soil to provide nutrients and to facilitate healthy root growth.
Humidity & MistingMums (Chrysanthemum 'Boulou Bronze') prefer moderate humidity levels. A range of 40-60% is ideal, as too high humidity can promote fungal diseases and too low can stress the plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, proper drainage, and avoid drafts.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, shelter from wind, water deeply.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Boulou Bronze', commonly known as mums or chrysanths, begins its lifecycle with germination, which occurs when conditions are favorable, typically in spring or early summer. The seedlings emerge and grow into young plants, forming a rosette of leaves while developing a sturdy root system. As the plants mature, they enter the vegetative stage, producing stems and leaves in preparation for flowering. During the reproductive stage, usually in late summer to fall, the plants produce vibrant bronze-colored flowers that attract pollinators for sexual reproduction. After pollination and fertilization, seeds are produced and dispersed, completing the cycle. When the flowering ends, the plants enter a period of dormancy through the winter, particularly in cooler climates, and may die back to the ground before resuming growth in the next season if the root system can survive the cold.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Chrysanthemum 'Boulou Bronze', commonly known as mums, is typically propagated through stem cuttings. The ideal time to take cuttings is in spring when the plants are producing new, vigorous growth. To propagate from cuttings, take a 4 to 6-inch (10 to 15 cm) stem piece, ensuring there are several sets of leaves. The bottom set of leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil mix. Keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and providing adequate warmth and light, will encourage rooting. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, and once they are established, the new plants can be transplanted to their final location.
