Garden Mum Chrysanthemum 'Brown Eyes' (21b)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Brown Eyes' exhibits a striking floral display, characterized by its unique blossoms that capture the attention of both gardeners and plant enthusiasts. Each flower is composed of a dense arrangement of petals that radiates outward from the flower's center. The petals themselves possess a warm hue that transitions from a rich, creamy color near the base to a delicate shade akin to sunlight at their tips. This gradient creates a captivating effect that can mesmerize anyone looking closely. Central to the flower's appeal is the distinct "eye" that gives this variety its name - 'Brown Eyes.' The center of each flower features a prominent core, which contrasts sharply with the lighter petals. The eye is a deeper shade, reminiscent of chocolate or dark amber, creating a striking point of contrast that draws the eye and enhances the visual impact of the flower's face. The foliage of the 'Brown Eyes' variety is also worthy of note. The leaves are a deep, glossy green, and they have a jagged edge that adds texture to the overall appearance of the plant. The leaves serve as a lush backdrop that further accentuates the beauty of the blooming flowers. Overall, the visual charm and elegance of the Chrysanthemum 'Brown Eyes' come from the interplay of its vibrant flowers with their notably darker centers and the rich green of its leaves. The contrast in colors and the flower's signature "eye" make it a distinctive and attractive choice for those seeking to add interest to their floral arrangements or gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Brown-Eyed Chrysanthemum, Brown Eyes Mum
Common names
Dendranthema 'Brown Eyes', Leucanthemum 'Brown Eyes'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Chrysanthemum, including the variety 'Brown Eyes,' has a low level of toxicity to humans. If ingested, it may cause symptoms such as dermatitis or skin irritation due to the presence of sesquiterpene lactones. In rare cases, if someone is particularly sensitive or allergic, the ingested plant material might lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. Always handle plants with care and wash hands after contact.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are considered toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If a pet ingests parts of this plant, it may experience symptoms of poisoning such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, the ingestion of Chrysanthemums could lead to more serious conditions such as depression and loss of appetite. It's advisable to keep this plant out of reach of pets and immediately consult a veterinarian if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of it.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2-3 feet (0.61-0.91 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.61-0.91 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Chrysanthemum 'Brown Eyes' adds vibrant color with its distinctive brown-centered flowers to gardens and landscapes.
- Variety: It offers a unique variation with its eye-catching color that can complement many garden designs.
- Pollinator Attraction: The plant attracts bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollination of nearby plants.
- Seasonal Interest: It blooms in the fall, providing a late-season show of flowers when many other plants have finished blooming.
- Easy to Grow: It is known for being hardy and easy to maintain, requiring minimal care once established in the proper conditions.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping or drought-prone areas.
- Versatility: The plant can be used in borders, containers, or as a cut flower in floral arrangements.
- Long Blooming Period: Chrysanthemums generally have a long flowering period, extending the display of color in the growing area.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: The distinct 'Brown Eyes' Chrysanthemum can be used to add visual interest and a splash of autumn color to photographic compositions.
- Textile Dye: The petals of 'Brown Eyes' Chrysanthemum can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, potentially resulting in unique earthy tones.
- Culinary Garnish: The edible blooms of the Chrysanthemum 'Brown Eyes' can add a decorative touch and subtle flavor to gourmet dishes.
- Companion Planting: Planting 'Brown Eyes' Chrysanthemum alongside vegetables may help deter pests, due to its natural insect-repellent properties.
- Festival Decor: Chrysanthemums, including 'Brown Eyes', are often used in festivals like the Japanese Kiku Matsuri, symbolizing longevity and happiness.
- Floral Crafts: These flowers can be dried and used in potpourri, wreaths, or other craft projects that require dry flowers.
- Relaxation Aid: The pleasant aroma of 'Brown Eyes' Chrysanthemum can be used in aromatherapy to help create a relaxing environment.
- Educational Resource: These plants can be used to teach botany and horticulture, demonstrating plant growth and reproductive cycles to learners.
- Art Subjects: Art enthusiasts and painters often use Chrysanthemums as subjects because of their rich colors and intricate petal structures.
- Symbolic Gift: In some cultures, giving a Chrysanthemum is a way to offer well-wishes for a friend or family member’s health and happiness.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui to promote happiness and ease in life. Displaying these flowers in the living room is believed to bring laughter and joy, while placing them in areas of study can enhance concentration and academic success. Their positive yang energy can counteract stress and promote relaxation.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums, often known as mums, are frequently associated with long life and well-being, as they are hardy flowers that can bloom into the late autumn.
- Rejuvenation: As they bloom in the fall, mums symbolize the cycle of growth and regeneration, reflecting nature’s ability to rejuvenate itself.
- Fidelity: Because they return year-after-year and have a strong and sturdy nature, mums are often seen as symbols of loyalty and steadfastness in relationships.
- Optimism: With their bright and varied colors, including the warm tones of 'Brown Eyes', mums represent happiness and positivity.
- True Friendship: In many cultures, gifting mums signifies deep friendship and is thought to attract good energy in friendships.
- Peace: In some traditions, the chrysanthemum is a symbol of peace and easing of tension.
WaterMums, including 'Brown Eyes', crave consistent moisture and should be watered deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This is usually about once a week, but frequency should be adjusted during hot, dry periods when you might have to water every other day. Provide about one gallon per plant each watering session to ensure that the moisture reaches deep into the root zone. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, so ensure the plant is in well-draining soil. During the fall, which is their bloom time, be careful not to splash water on the leaves and flowers as this can lead to disease.
LightMums thrive in full sunlight, making 'Brown Eyes' happiest in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sun every day. They can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can result in weak stems and fewer blooms. The ideal location would be one that enjoys the morning sun, which is less intense, and some afternoon shade in the hottest parts of the summer to prevent scorching.
TemperatureThe 'Brown Eyes' mum prefers a temperature range between 70°F and 75°F during the day and 60°F to 65°F at night for optimal growth. They can tolerate lower temperatures down to freezing, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 32°F can damage the plant. Ideally, protect the plant from extreme cold to ensure its survival and blooming potential.
PruningPruning 'Brown Eyes' mums encourages a bushier plant and more blooms. Pinch back the growing tips when the plant is about 6 inches tall in early summer and repeat every few weeks until mid-July to promote branching. Stop pruning by the end of July to allow flower buds to develop for fall blooms. Deadheading spent flowers will also encourage more blooms and maintain a tidy appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor the best soil mix for Chrysanthemum 'Brown Eyes', use a well-draining potting mix enriched with organic matter. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage and aeration. Regularly add compost to maintain fertility.
RepottingChrysanthemums, including the 'Brown Eyes' variety, should generally be repotted every one to two years. This helps refresh the soil and prevent the roots from becoming too compacted, which can hinder the plant's growth and flowering.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemum 'Brown Eyes' prefers moderate humidity levels. Aim for a humidity range of 40-60% for optimal growth. Avoid environments with very low or very high humidity to prevent stress and potential disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil with full to partial sun.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Brown Eyes', commonly known as the Garden Mum, starts its life cycle as a seed or a clonally propagated cutting. The seeds or cuttings germinate or root in spring, developing into young plants with characteristic deeply lobed leaves. Throughout the summer, the plant grows vegetatively, creating a bushy structure. As the days shorten in late summer to early autumn, the Garden Mum initiates flowering, producing its distinctive brown-centered blossoms with surrounding petals ranging in color, depending on the variety. After blooming, the flowers eventually wither, and if the seeds have developed, they are dispersed by wind or wildlife, perpetuating the plant's life cycle. In regions with cold winters, Garden Mums enter a dormancy stage, surviving with underground parts until the return of favorable growing conditions in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method for propagating Chrysanthemum 'Brown Eyes', also known simply as mums, involves the use of cuttings. The ideal time for this practice is late spring to early summer, when the plant is in active growth. Healthy, non-flowering stems of about 4 to 6 inches (about 10 to 15 centimeters) are selected and cut just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are stripped away, and the cut end may be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then inserted into a moistened potting mix or a soilless rooting medium. It’s important to provide a warm environment and consistent moisture while waiting for roots to develop, which typically takes a few weeks. Once rooted, the new chrysanthemum plant can be transplanted to a larger pot or outdoors to its final growing location.
