Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Fairie' (21b)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Fairie', commonly known as Mum, features a stunning display of decorative blooms that bear a unique, warm bronze hue. Its flowers are composed of numerous layered petals that elegantly curl and quill at the edges, giving them a lush, full appearance. This profusion of petals creates a dense and textured look, enchanting the viewer with its complexity. These blossoms cluster together to create a striking visual impact. The foliage of the 'Bronze Fairie' is deeply lobed with a rich green color, providing a lush backdrop that accentuates the beauty of the bronze-colored flowers. The contrast between the bronze petals and the verdant leaves makes for a captivating display in any garden setting. This cultivar of Mum is a popular choice for its distinctive color and ornamental quality, bringing autumnal charm to the landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Bronze Fairie Chrysanthemum, Bronze Fairie Mum, Bronze Fairie Daisy
Common names
Dendranthema 'Bronze Fairie', Leucanthemum 'Bronze Fairie'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Fairie' is chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums are not highly toxic to humans, but they can cause some skin irritation, such as dermatitis, in sensitive individuals upon contact. If ingested, chrysanthemums may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is advisable to avoid ingesting any part of the chrysanthemum plant.
To pets
Chrysanthemum, which is the common name for Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Fairie', is toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. The plant contains compounds such as pyrethrins, which can cause symptoms of poisoning if ingested. These include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion of chrysanthemums could lead to neurological symptoms such as tremors or seizures. It is important to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Bronze
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Fairie' can draw in bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination and maintaining a healthy ecosystem in your garden.
- Easy to Grow: It is known for being a low-maintenance plant, suitable for gardeners of all experience levels.
- Extended Bloom Period: They have a long flowering season, often from late summer through fall, providing color in the garden when many other plants have finished blooming.
- Versatile Landscaping: Can be used in border plantings, containers, and as cut flowers, making it a versatile option for a range of landscaping designs.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of limited water, making it suitable for drier climates or water-wise gardens.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its distinctive bronze color, it adds a unique aesthetic to gardens and bouquets.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: The flowers of the chrysanthemum can be used to create a range of natural dyes for fabric, with colors varying depending on the mordant used.
- Insect repellent: Chrysanthemum flowers contain compounds that are effective in repelling mosquitoes and other insects when applied as a spray.
- Biological pest control: Extracts from chrysanthemum can be used as a natural pesticide against nematodes and other garden pests.
- Photography: The chrysanthemum's unique form and color make it an excellent subject for macro and nature photography, serving as an inspiration or educational tool.
- Crafts: Dried chrysanthemum flowers can be used in potpourri, wreaths, or other craft projects where their color and form add aesthetic value.
- Edible decorations: The petals of some chrysanthemum varieties are edible and can be used to garnish salads, desserts, and cocktails for an elegant touch.
- Water purification: Chrysanthemum plants can be used in constructed wetlands or water gardens to help remove pollutants from the water.
- Bookmarks: Drying chrysanthemum flowers flat allows them to be used as delicate, natural bookmarks.
- Feng Shui: In some cultures, chrysanthemums are used in Feng Shui to bring balance and positive energy to a space.
- Scenting rooms: The fragrance of chrysanthemum flowers can be captured in sachets to naturally scent drawers and closets.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChrysanthemums are believed to carry strong yang energy which can help to bring laughter and happiness into the home, making them a good choice for social areas like the living room. They are also associated with well-being and longevity; therefore, placing them in the health area or the center of your home can enhance these aspects of life.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life due to their robust nature and ability to bloom into the fall when many other flowers have faded.
- Endurance: The ability of the chrysanthemum to flourish in the cooler autumn weather symbolizes overcoming hardships and enduring tough situations.
- Rebirth: As the chrysanthemum can withstand harsh conditions and re-emerge with beauty, it often represents the idea of rebirth or a new beginning.
- Beauty: The attractive and varied colors of chrysanthemums, including the 'Bronze Fairie's rich hues, are emblematic of beauty and grace in various cultures.
- Friendship: In certain cultures, the chrysanthemum is a symbol of friendship and well-wishing, particularly the sharing of the flower with a friend as a meaningful gesture.
- Peace: Some view the chrysanthemum as a flower of contemplation and serenity, hence symbolizing peace and tranquility.
WaterMums, including the variety Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Fairie', prefer evenly moist soil, so water them regularly to maintain this condition. In general, watering deeply once a week with about one gallon of water should be sufficient, but this can vary depending on climate and soil type. During hot or dry spells, you may need to water more frequently to prevent the soil from drying out. Always check the top inch of soil before watering; if it feels dry to the touch, it's time to water. Avoid overwatering as it may lead to root rot, and ensure proper drainage is available.
LightMums thrive in locations where they can receive full sun, meaning at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Fairie' will perform best when placed in a spot where it can enjoy morning sunlight and some protection from the intense afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates. An east-facing garden that gets bright morning light would be ideal for this plant.
TemperatureMums are quite hardy, but Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Fairie' prefers a temperature range of 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. They can withstand some variation in temperature but should be protected from extreme heat above 90 degrees Fahrenheit and frost conditions below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. This mum variety will flourish in the cooler temperatures of fall and can survive mild winters if properly mulched.
PruningPruning mums, such as the Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Fairie', encourages a bushier growth and more abundant blooms. Pinch back the tips of the stems in late spring to early summer, which means removing the top inch of growth. Repeat this process every few weeks until midsummer. Avoid pruning in late summer or fall since this is the plant's blooming period. The best time for major pruning is early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Chrysanthemum, commonly known as the mum or hardy garden mum, should be well-draining and fertile with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A combination of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite can create an ideal mix. Regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer will support robust growth.
RepottingHardy garden mums should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, preferably in the spring. This allows for refreshing the soil and dividing if the plant has outgrown its current container, ensuring the mum's healthy growth.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer moderate humidity levels. An ideal range would be between 40-60% relative humidity for optimal growth. Avoid placing them in overly dry or highly humid environments to prevent stress.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, moderate water, and regular feeding.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Bronze Fairie' (commonly known as Hardy Mum) starts its life cycle as a seed, which, when sown and provided with adequate warmth and moisture, germinates to produce a young seedling. The seedling quickly establishes its root system and begins to grow its first true leaves, entering the vegetative growth stage where it develops a bushy structure with multiple stems and leaves. As the plant matures, it prepares for the flowering stage, typically triggered by shorter daylight hours; the plant produces flower buds that bloom into the characteristic bronze-colored flowers in late summer or fall. After flowering, pollination can occur, potentially leading the plant to produce seeds that may be collected or naturally dispersed for reproduction. Over winter, the Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Fairie' plant often dies back, especially in colder climates, but it can endure and regrow from its root system if it's well-mulched or protected, as it behaves perennially. Come spring, new growth will emerge from the roots or the plant may be propagated by division to start the life cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Fairie', commonly known as a type of Hardy Mum, is typically propagated through the method of division. This is because Chrysanthemums are known for their crowded root systems, which lend themselves well to being split apart to create new plants. The ideal time to propagate by division is in the early spring when new growth begins to appear and the plant is not yet in active bloom. To propagate by division, the entire plant should be carefully uplifted from the soil. The root clump is then gently teased apart into sections, ensuring that each section has a fair amount of roots and shoots. These individual divisions can then be replanted in well-draining soil at the same depth they were originally growing, spaced approximately 18 to 24 inches apart (45 to 60 centimeters), to ensure adequate room for growth. It's important to water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish them.
