Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Brietner' (24b)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Brietner' is a type of garden mum that features a captivating display of flowers. The blooms are a hallmark of the plant, usually characterized by their exquisite layering and full, rounded shape that create a cushion or pom-pom appearance. They often boast a rich palette of colors that can range from bright yellows, deep reds, purples, to soft pinks and whites. The petals can be uniform in color or possess varying shades that may fade or deepen toward the center or tips, giving each flower a unique and striking look. The leaves of Chrysanthemum 'Brietner' are typically deep green and have a dense, bushy growth habit that forms a backdrop to the spectacular floral display. They are often lobed or deeply divided with edges that can appear slightly toothed, providing a textural contrast to the softness of the flowers. When the plant is in full bloom, the foliage may be largely obscured by the profusion of flowers that cover the plant, creating a lavish and vibrant show. Stems are sturdy and upright, supporting the weight of the flowers and maintaining the plant's shape. These stems branch out from the base of the plant, creating a lush and full-bodied appearance. The overall impression of Chrysanthemum 'Brietner' when in bloom is one of abundant color and vitality, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of autumnal color to their landscape without discussing its specific dimensions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Garden Mum, Florist's Chrysanthemum, Hardy Chrysanthemum, Mum.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Brietner' (24b).
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly referred to as mums, are not considered highly toxic to humans but can cause irritation in some individuals. If ingested, they might cause mild symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, or nausea. Contact with the skin can sometimes lead to dermatitis. There is typically no severe toxicity associated with chrysanthemums for humans.
To pets
Chrysanthemums (mums) are toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If ingested by pets, symptoms of toxicity can include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious conditions such as depression and loss of coordination. If your pet has consumed chrysanthemums, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances garden aesthetics: The Chrysanthemum 'Brightner' adds vibrant color and visual interest to garden beds and landscapes.
- Attracts pollinators: This plant is known to attract bees and butterflies, which are important for pollination in the garden.
- Provides seasonal interest: With its autumn blooming season, it offers a splash of color when many other plants are starting to fade.
- Easy to grow: Chrysanthemums are generally low-maintenance, making them suitable for various gardening skill levels.
- Versatile planting options: They can be grown in borders, containers, or as a part of a cut flower garden for indoor arrangements.
- Long-lasting blooms: The flowers of the Chrysanthemum 'Brightner' have a lengthy bloom time, providing enduring beauty.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: Chrysanthemum 'Brietner' can serve as an artistic muse thanks to its vibrant and diverse colors; artists often use these flowers as subjects in paintings, photographs, and textile designs.
- Eco-friendly Dye: Petals of the chrysanthemum can be used to create natural dyes for fabric, providing a range of colors from golden yellow to deep green depending on the mordant used.
- Insecticidal Properties: While not meant for direct contact, some cultures grind dried chrysanthemum flowers into powders to naturally repel insects in gardens or pantries.
- Mood Enhancer: The bright colors and pleasant fragrance of chrysanthemums are often used in aromatherapy and as decoration to lift spirits and create a calming atmosphere in living spaces.
- Culinary Garnish: Some varieties of chrysanthemums are edible and their petals can be used to add a colorful flourish to salads, desserts, and fancy drinks.
- Floral Crafts: Dried chrysanthemum flowers are incorporated into potpourri mixes, homemade paper, and candle making for added color and scent.
- Symbolic Gift: Due to its association with longevity and joy in various cultures, chrysanthemums are often given as gifts on special occasions to convey good wishes.
- Festival Decorations: In certain cultures, chrysanthemum flowers are an integral part of festivals and are used to create elaborate displays and decorations.
- Plant Companionship: Chrysanthemums can be planted alongside other crops to deter pests due to their naturally occurring pyrethrins, protecting vegetables and other plants without the use of synthetic chemicals.
- Teaching Tool: Chrysanthemums are used in botany and horticulture classes to teach plant anatomy and hybridization techniques due to their diverse forms and ease of cultivation.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChrysanthemums or mums are traditionally associated with happiness and good luck in Feng Shui. They are believed to carry strong Yang energy, which can help to bring positive vibes and uplift the energy in a home. To use mums in Feng Shui, place them in areas where you want to introduce joy and positive energy, such as the living room or as a welcoming touch in the entryway. Be sure to keep them well-maintained, as dead or dying flowers can attract negative energy.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity & Immortality: The Chrysanthemum is often associated with long life and perpetual youth. In some Asian cultures, the tea made from these flowers is consumed as a health tonic.
- Rebirth & Renewal: As the Chrysanthemum often blooms in the fall, it can symbolize the idea of rebirth or the renewal that comes after a cycle of life or season.
- Nobility & Integrity: In Japan, the flower represents the Emperor and the Imperial family, symbolizing nobility, honor, and purity of character.
- Death and Mourning: In European cultures, particularly in Italy, France, and Poland, white chrysanthemums are often used to honor the deceased and are seen at funerals and on graves.
- Joy and Happiness: Depending on the context and culture, the bright and cheerful appearance of Chrysanthemums can also represent joy and optimism.
- Loyalty and Devotion: Chrysanthemums can symbolize a strong loyalty and unwavering devotion, often in the context of relationships and friendships.
WaterMums, including the 'Brietner' variety, require regular watering to ensure the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be done thoroughly, allowing water to reach the roots, about once a week with approximately 1 gallon of water per plant, depending on weather conditions. In hot, dry periods, they may need water twice a week while in cooler climates or during the fall, watering can be reduced. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering again; if it's dry, it's time to water your mums. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's crucial to provide good drainage.
LightMums thrive in full to partial sunlight. The ideal spot for Chrysanthemum 'Brietner' is where it can receive at least 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If grown indoors, placing them near a south-facing window ensures they get enough natural light. However, in extremely hot climates, afternoon shade will help protect mums from intense heat stress.
TemperatureMums are cold-hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit, but they grow best when daytime temperatures are between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate highs up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Always protect Chrysanthemum 'Brietner' from frost to prevent damage to the blooms and foliage.
PruningPruning mums, including the 'Brietner', encourages bushier growth and more prolific blooming. Prune in early spring when new growth begins, and pinch back the tips again in midsummer to promote branching. The best time to prune is after the last frost for your area and before the end of July, to avoid cutting off developing flower buds. Regular deadheading spent blooms will keep your mums looking neat and encourage additional flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums, such as the Chrysanthemum 'Brietner', thrive best in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for these plants. A mix containing peat, vermiculite or perlite, and compost will provide the drainage and nutrients these mums need to grow healthily.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Repotting is best done in the spring before the start of the growth season.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer moderate humidity levels around 40-60%. They can tolerate some variation in humidity, but should not be in overly dry or excessively damp environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light, and keep soil consistently moist.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to light shade, in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Chrysanthemum 'Brietner', commonly known as a Garden Mum, begins with seed germination, where the seeds sprout and develop into small seedlings under the right temperature and moisture conditions. The seedlings then grow into vegetative plants, producing a rosette of leaves as they mature. This vegetative stage is followed by the budding phase when flower buds start to form at the tips of the stems. The plant enters the blooming stage, where the buds open to reveal the characteristic flowers of the Garden Mum, which can be of various colors depending on the cultivar. After pollination, which can be aided by insects or wind, the plant may produce seeds if the flowers were fertilized, completing the reproductive cycle. Finally, in perennial varieties, the plant goes dormant during the colder months, only to regrow from the same root system in the following growing season, while annual varieties would end their life cycle after seed setting.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Brietner' variety, is through cuttings. This is typically done in the spring when the plant is producing new, fresh growth. Gardeners select healthy stems and snip off a 4-6 inch (approximately 10-15 cm) piece, making sure that each cutting has several sets of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end may be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then planted in a moist potting mix, with the remaining leaves just above the surface. The pot is kept in indirect light and monitored to maintain consistent soil moisture until roots are established and new growth appears, signaling successful propagation.
