Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Boulou White' (12)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Boulou White' is a striking plant known for its decorative flowers. It bears lush, green foliage that provides an attractive backdrop for its blooms. The leaves are a deep, glossy green with a slightly lobed and toothed margin, creating a textured look to the plant's overall appearance. The most prominent feature of this plant is its flowers, which are large and daisy-like with a profusion of white petals that radiate out from a central disc. The petals have a velvety texture and create a full, rounded appearance, making each flower resemble a fluffy white pom-pom or a small, radiant sun. The central disc of the flowers, from where the petals spread, often has a hint of a yellowish or greenish hue, adding subtle contrast to the white petals. Together, the dark green leaves and the bright white flowers of the Chrysanthemum 'Boulou White' present a classic and elegant display, often used to brighten up gardens or as a staple in floral arrangements.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Florist's Daisy, Hardy Garden Mum, Mum
Common names
Dendranthema 'Boulou White', Leucanthemum 'Boulou White'.
ToxicityTo humans
Mums, including the variety 'Boulou White', are generally not considered highly toxic to humans. However, they contain compounds such as sesquiterpene, lactones, and pyrethrins, which can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals when they come into contact with the skin. Ingesting parts of the plant can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or diarrhea. It is uncommon for these plants to cause severe poisoning in humans.
To pets
Mums, including the variety 'Boulou White', are toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. These plants contain pyrethrins and other compounds that can be harmful if ingested. Symptoms of chrysanthemum poisoning in pets can include drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to depression, loss of coordination, dermatitis, and hypersalivation. If a pet ingests a significant amount of the plant, it is important to seek veterinary care promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Spread
1-3 feet (30-91 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds a touch of elegance to gardens with its pure white blooms and lush green foliage.
- Extended Blooming Season: Chrysanthemums, including 'Boulou White', are renowned for their long blooming period, often lasting from late summer into fall.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers can attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, enhancing biodiversity.
- Versatility: Suitable for planting in borders, containers, and can be used in cut flower arrangements.
- Low Maintenance: Chrysanthemums are relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, they can withstand short periods of drought, making them suitable for various climates.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Art and Crafts: The petals of chrysanthemums can be pressed and used in crafting projects such as handmade cards or bookmarks.
- Dye: Chrysanthemum flowers can be used to make a natural yellow dye for fabrics, wool, and paper.
- Culinary Garnish: The petals are edible and can be used to add a colorful garnish to salads and desserts.
- Aromatic Sachets: Dried chrysanthemum petals can be added to sachets to provide a pleasant fragrance to drawers and closets.
- Photography: Photographers sometimes use chrysanthemums as a subject to practice macro photography techniques due to their intricate patterns and colors.
- Festive Decorations: In various cultures, chrysanthemums are used to decorate during festivals, such as the Day of the Dead in Mexico or during the Chinese Double Ninth Festival.
- Companion Planting: Chrysanthemums can be planted in gardens to help repel certain insect pests, serving as a natural form of pest control.
- Floral Arrangements: Dried chrysanthemum flowers can be used in dried floral arrangements or potpourri mixes.
- Symbolic Gifts: Depending on the culture, chrysanthemums can be given as gifts to convey messages such as honesty, loyalty, or longevity.
- Teaching Tool: Chrysanthemums can be used in educational settings to teach children about plant biology, including growth cycles and pollination.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui practice as it is believed to bring happiness and laughter into the home, while also carrying strong Yang energy which can encourage positivity. In Feng Shui, it's advised to place Chrysanthemums in the living room area to promote good health and well-being, as well as in the office to enhance concentration and fend off negative energies.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Loyalty and Devotion: Chrysanthemums often symbolize loyalty and devotion due to their ability to withstand the first frosts of fall and still bloom, reflecting steadfastness.
- Longevity and Immortality: In some Asian cultures, chrysanthemums are a symbol of life and immortality because of their health-giving properties and the longevity of the flower’s life.
- Happiness and Joy: The full, round shape of the chrysanthemum bloom is associated with joy in many cultures, making it a common gift to bring happiness.
- Grieving and Death: In some European countries, chrysanthemums are symbolic of death and are often used in funerary arrangements or on graves.
- Rebirth and Renewal: Chrysanthemums that bloom in the autumn can also symbolize the idea of rebirth and the cycle of life as they present vibrancy at a time when other plants are dying.
WaterMums, including the variety Chrysanthemum 'Boulou White', should be watered regularly to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during dry spells. As a general rule, watering deeply once a week with about one gallon of water per plant should suffice, but this may vary depending on climate conditions. During particularly hot or windy days, additional watering may be necessary to prevent wilting. Always check the top inch of soil before watering; if it feels dry, it's time to water. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of disease and focus on watering the soil directly around the base of the plant.
LightMums require full sunlight conditions to bloom their best. Chrysanthemum 'Boulou White' should be planted in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Morning light is ideal as it is less intense, and it helps foliage to dry quickly, reducing the chance of disease. If the plant is located indoors, place it near a south-facing window for maximum light exposure.
TemperatureMums, including Chrysanthemum 'Boulou White', thrive in cooler conditions and can handle temperatures as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit. They perform best when daytime temperatures are between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and when night temperatures are between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. However, temperatures over 80 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plant and hinder flower development.
PruningPruning is important for Chrysanthemum 'Boulou White' to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch back the growing tips of the plant in late spring or early summer to stimulate branching. This should be done every two to three weeks until mid-summer for optimal fullness. Additionally, remove spent blooms to encourage further flowering and maintain a tidy appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining soil with good fertility; mix equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or vermiculite. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for Chrysanthemum 'Boulou White.'
RepottingChrysanthemums should be repotted every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current container. Ensure proper root space for Chrysanthemum 'Boulou White' to avoid root-bound stress.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemum 'Boulou White' prefers moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%, which mimics its natural outdoor environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, proper watering, and good air circulation for indoor mums.
Outdoor
Place in sun, shelter from strong wind, keep soil moist for outdoor mums.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA for Chrysanthemum 'Boulou White.'
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Boulou White', commonly known as garden mum, begins its life cycle when the seeds germinate in the spring after the last frost or when cuttings are rooted. After germination or rooting, the seedling or clone enters a vegetative growth phase where it develops a robust root system and foliage. As the plant matures, it enters the budding stage, typically in late summer or early fall, during which flower buds form and start to show color. The blooming phase follows, where the plant displays its characteristic white flowers, attracting pollinators and providing aesthetic value. After the flowering stage, the chrysanthemum enters a senescence phase where the plant’s growth slows; leaves may yellow, and the plant prepares for dormancy. Finally, in winter, the plant goes dormant, conserving energy until the next growing season, at which point the cycle can begin anew with new growth or through the survival of its underground structures.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Boulou White', commonly referred to as mums, can be easily propagated through stem cuttings, which is the most popular method. This typically takes place during the spring when the plant's growth is vigorous and there's plenty of time for the plant to establish before the cooler months. To propagate mums using stem cuttings, select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) piece just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are removed and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. This cutting is then placed in a well-draining potting mix, watered gently, and covered with a plastic bag to retain humidity. In a few weeks, once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into the garden or a larger pot to continue growing.
