Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Margaret' (29c)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Margaret' is characterized by its captivating bronze-hued blossoms that captivate onlookers with their warm, autumnal tones. Each flower is composed of a dense array of petals that unfold in an orderly radial pattern from a central disk. These petals are known for their subtly gradated coloration, displaying a spectrum of shades ranging from deep burnt orange to lighter copper tones, invoking the essence of fall's vibrant foliage. The blossoms are not singular but emerge in clusters to form a lush bouquet of chromatic exuberance amidst the surrounding foliage. The leaves of the Bronze Margaret chrysanthemum complement the flowers with their rich green color and deeply lobed edges, lending a textured backdrop to the striking floral display. The plant's leaves spread around the stem, forming a bushy, verdant canvas that anchors the floriferous spectacle atop. The overall appearance of the Bronze Margaret chrysanthemum is one of abundance and seasonal celebration, embodying the spirit of the cooler, festive months through its robust display of effervescent blooms and hearty foliage.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Bronze Margaret Chrysanthemum, Hardy Chrysanthemum, Garden Mum, Florist's Chrysanthemum
Common names
Dendranthema 'Bronze Margaret', Ajania 'Bronze Margaret'.
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, including the 'Bronze Margaret' variety, are generally not considered highly toxic to humans. However, they can cause dermatitis or skin irritation in sensitive individuals upon contact with the foliage. Ingesting parts of this plant may lead to gastrointestinal upset including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes a sensation of burning in the mouth. It is advisable to avoid consuming any part of chrysanthemums.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If pets ingest any part of a chrysanthemum plant, including the 'Bronze Margaret' variety, they may exhibit symptoms of poisoning such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. The plant contains pyrethrins and other compounds that can be harmful to pets if consumed, and in severe cases, ingestion can lead to neurological symptoms. It is important to prevent pets from accessing and ingesting the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Bronze
Height
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Mums enhance gardens with their varied and vibrant colors, including the bronze hues of 'Bronze Margaret'.
- Extended Bloom Time: Mums typically have a long flowering season, often blooming from late summer into fall.
- Attracts Pollinators: Chrysanthemums are attractive to beneficial insects such as butterflies and bees, aiding in pollination.
- Easy to Grow: Mums are known for being low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions with minimal care.
- Versatility: They can be planted in garden beds, borders, containers, and are suitable for cut flowers due to their long vase life.
- Seasonal Impact: Mums are synonymous with autumn, providing seasonal interest and color when other plants begin to fade.
- Diversity of Forms: 'Bronze Margaret' like other mums, comes in various forms and sizes, allowing for creative garden design.
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 fabric dye: Chrysanthemums can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, giving them a unique bronze color that can vary depending on the mordant used.
- For photography: Chrysanthemum petals can be used in photograms, a type of photographic printmaking that can capture the delicate structure of the petals.
- In art and crafts: The petals and leaves of the 'Bronze Margaret' can be pressed and used for creating botanical art and crafts such as bookmarks, cards, or framed art pieces.
- As a component in potpourri: Dried chrysanthemum petals can be used in potpourri to add color and texture, and when combined with essential oils, can contribute a pleasant aroma.
- In eco-printing: The flowers of 'Bronze Margaret' Chrysanthemum can be used for eco-printing, a technique where plants are used to leave prints on fabric or paper.
- As a natural pest repellent for gardens: Chrysanthemums contain compounds that are known to deter certain pests, so planting them can help protect other plants in your garden.
- In educational settings: The plant can be used to teach botany and horticulture, highlighting the diversity of cultivars and breeding techniques.
- For culinary presentation: While not all chrysanthemums are edible, some can be safely used as a decorative element for culinary dishes, adding a splash of color.
- As a living mulch: When the chrysanthemum plants are dense, they can serve as a living mulch, helping to keep the soil moist and suppress weeds.
- In floral crowns and boutonnieres: Fresh or dried 'Bronze Margaret' flowers can be incorporated into wearable floral arrangements for special occasions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChrysanthemums are used in Feng Shui to attract positive energy and can be placed in living areas to promote happiness and well-being, especially when displayed in the center of the home.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and well-being in parts of Asia, particularly China and Japan.
- Rejuvenation: Because they bloom in the fall, chrysanthemums symbolize the idea of life persisting amidst the onset of colder seasons.
- Cheerfulness and Optimism: The bright and varied colors of chrysanthemums represent positivity and happiness.
- Friendship: In America, chrysanthemums are given as a sign of friendship and well-wishing.
- Loyalty and Devotion: The flower's ability to bloom in the face of the fading year suggests steadfastness.
- Death: In some European countries, chrysanthemums are symbolic of death and are used as memorial flowers on All Souls' Day.
WaterMums should be watered regularly to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during dry periods. For the 'Bronze Margaret' variety, water deeply every few days, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. It's recommended to water early in the morning or late in the afternoon to minimize evaporation losses. Provide about one inch of water per week, which equates to approximately 0.623 gallons for a standard-sized plant.
LightThe 'Bronze Margaret' Mum prefers full sun to partial shade to achieve optimal growth and flowering. The best spot for these mums is in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunshine daily. Avoid deep shade, as this will reduce blooming and weaken the plant.
TemperatureMums thrive in cooler temperatures and the 'Bronze Margaret' Mum is no exception. The ideal temperature range for this variety is between 60°F and 70°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to 32°F, but it's best to avoid exposure to freezes. Plant vigor and bloom quality may decline if subjected to temperatures over 80°F for extended periods.
PruningPruning 'Bronze Margaret' Mums promotes bushier growth and prevents legginess. Pinch back the growing tips when the plants are about 6 inches tall and repeat every few weeks until mid-summer to encourage more branching and blooms. The best time for major pruning is after the bloom cycle when plants begin to fade, usually in late fall.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Bronze Daisy, or Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Margaret', is a well-draining loamy or sandy soil enriched with organic matter. Ideal pH levels for the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingBronze Daisy should typically be repotted every one to two years. This practice allows you to refresh the soil and provide space for the growing roots.
Humidity & MistingBronze Daisy thrives in average room humidity levels. Aim to keep ambient humidity around 40-60% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light and high humidity.
Outdoor
Full sun, sheltered location, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Margaret', commonly known as the Hardy Garden Mum, begins with seed germination, initiated by warmth and moisture in the soil. This leads to the seedling stage, where the first leaves and roots develop, allowing the young plant to photosynthesize and grow. During the vegetative stage, the plant matures by developing a robust root system and fuller foliage, preparing for flowering. The flowering stage occurs when the Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Margaret' produces its characteristic bronze-hued blossoms, which can be triggered by shorter day lengths as it is a short-day plant. After pollination, if it occurs, the plant may produce seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant then enters a period of dormancy in the winter, with reduced growth activity, and may die back depending on the climate, to later regrow from hardy roots or overwintering structures in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Bronze Margaret', generally known as garden mums, is most commonly propagated by division. This is best done in the spring as new growth begins, usually in late March through May depending on the climate. To propagate through division, carefully dig up the clump of the plant's roots and use a sharp spade or knife to divide the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring each division has a good amount of roots and shoots. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing previously, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches apart (45 to 60 centimeters). Water the new plants well to help establish their root systems. This method helps maintain the health and vigor of the garden mums and ensures that the new plants are true to the parent's characteristics.
