Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush' (21d)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush' is a visually striking plant known for its vibrant flower display. The blossoms exhibit a lush, deep pink hue, sometimes described as a rich carmine tone, that fades to a softer pink or blush towards the edges. This gradation of color gives the petals a dimensional, painterly quality. The flowers themselves are known for their multitude of fine, layered petals that radiate from the center, creating a full and rounded appearance that is often likened to a pom-pom. These dense blooms emerge from a backdrop of dark green leaves that have a distinct, lobed shape with serrated edges. The foliage provides a stark contrast to the bright flowers, making them stand out even more prominently. The overall look of the Chrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush' is robust and cheerful, with its showy flowers often attracting admirers in any garden setting. The plant typically presents a profusion of flowers, making it an excellent choice for adding a splash of autumnal color to the landscape.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Garden Mum, Hardy Chrysanthemum, Florist's Chrysanthemum, Mum, Decorative Mum
Common names
Dendranthema 'Carmine Blush', Chrysanthemum morifolium 'Carmine Blush'.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Chrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush' is Chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums are not highly toxic to humans, but they can cause dermatitis in some individuals who are sensitive to their natural compounds, primarily sesquiterpene lactones. If ingested, they may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
To pets
The common name for Chrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush' is Chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats, as they contain compounds that can be harmful, including pyrethrins. If a pet ingests Chrysanthemum, they may show signs of poisoning that include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can cause neurological symptoms like tremors or seizures. Immediate veterinary care is recommended if pets consume any part of this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: Adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes with its carmine-pink blooms.
- Pollinator attraction: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting biodiversity.
- Seasonal interest: Provides late season blooms when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Low maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it an easy choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Chrysanthemums contain compounds that may have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Antioxidant: Some species of chrysanthemum are believed to possess antioxidant properties.
- Anxiolytic: Chrysanthemum tea is traditionally used for its potential calming effects.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: Chrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush' with its rich color can be used as a muse for painters and textile designers to create vibrant patterns and artworks.
- Natural Fabric Dye: The petals of the Chrysanthemum can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, providing a pinkish hue to cloth and yarn.
- Photography: With their intricate details and beautiful color, Chrysanthemums serve as excellent subjects for macro photography, enhancing portfolios and galleries.
- Garden Design: These plants can be strategically placed in gardens to create a monochromatic theme or a color gradient effect when paired with other flowers.
- Culinary Decoration: The petals of the Chrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush' can be used as a delicate and colorful garnish for salads and desserts.
- Ecoscaping: Chrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush' can be incorporated into sustainable landscape designs to attract pollinators and promote biodiversity.
- Feng Shui: In some cultures, Chrysanthemums are used in Feng Shui as they are believed to bring happiness and laughter to a home when placed in the right area.
- Homemade Potpourri: Dried Chrysanthemum petals can be mixed with other natural ingredients to create fragrant potpourri for the home.
- Craft Supplies: The dried flowers can be used in various crafts, such as making bookmarks, greeting cards, or decorating candle holders.
- Edging Plants: Chrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush' can be used as edging plants in garden beds, creating a defined and colorful border around the garden or walkway.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui to attract positive energy and to bring happiness and a sense of ease. It is often placed in living areas to promote good health and well-being. Its vibrant colors can energize a space and its symbol of longevity and joy makes it a favorable choice for the living room or public areas.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums have long been associated with longevity due to their hardy nature and ability to bloom into the autumn, when most other flowers have faded.
- Rejuvenation and Recovery: The recurring blooming of chrysanthemums symbolizes the cycle of life and the power of recovery or coming back from adversity.
- Loyalty and Devotion: In many cultures, chrysanthemums are given to represent loyalty and devotion between friends, family members, or partners.
- Nobility and Honor: In Japan, the chrysanthemum is a noble flower, often associated with the imperial family and representing perfection and honor.
- Happiness and Joy: The bright and cheerful appearance of the 'Carmine Blush' variety personifies happiness and the positivity of life.
WaterMums, such as the Chrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush', should be watered regularly to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during the growing season. Ideally, they should be watered thoroughly once a week, with adjustments for rainfall and temperature. Apply approximately one gallon of water per plant during each watering, ensuring even distribution throughout the soil. During hot, dry periods, the frequency may need to increase. In the dormant season, reduce watering to conserve moisture without causing the roots to become waterlogged.
LightMums prefer full sunlight to thrive, so the best spot for your Chrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush' will provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They will grow in partial shade but won't produce as many flowers, so try to find a location that is sunny with some afternoon shade if temperatures are excessively high to prevent scorching their leaves.
TemperatureChrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush' can tolerate temperature variations, but they perform best when daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F. They can survive minimum temperatures down to 32°F, but frost can damage the plant. During the blooming period, it's crucial to protect them from extreme cold and heat.
PruningPruning Mums encourages a more bushy growth and abundant flowering. It's best to prune your Chrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush' in the early spring when new growth begins and again in mid-summer to promote fall blooming. Deadheading spent flowers will also encourage more blooms. Prune stems back by one-third in early summer, which will delay blooming until the fall when they are most visually striking.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Chrysanthemums should be well-draining, fertile and loamy with a pH between 6.5 and 6.7. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or peat moss to enhance fertility and drainage.
RepottingChrysanthemums should be repotted annually to refresh the soil and encourage healthy growth; spring is the best time for repotting right before the growing season.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemums prefer moderate humidity levels, between 40% and 60%, which helps support their growth without encouraging fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and maintain consistent watering.
Outdoor
Plant in a sunny spot with well-draining soil and protect from harsh frost.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush', commonly known as the Hardy Garden Mum, begins its life as a seed or as a division from the parent plant. The seed germinates or the division establishes roots, followed by the emergence of shoots that develop into a vegetative state with characteristic deeply lobed leaves. As it matures, the plant enters the bud formation stage, where flower heads start to form. These buds blossom into its carmine pink flowers during the flowering stage, which usually occurs in late summer to fall. After blooming, the Chrysanthemum sets seed or continues to grow vegetatively, and then it enters dormancy over winter. In spring, the plant breaks dormancy, regrows, and the cycle repeats.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
For the Chrysanthemum 'Carmine Blush', also commonly known as mums, the most popular method of propagation is through the division of established plant clumps. This is best done in early spring, just as the new growth begins to appear. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, ensuring a good amount of roots are attached. Using a sharp spade or knife, divide the clump into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system attached. These divisions can then be replanted in well-draining soil, spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growth. It's important to water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish the new roots. Within a season, these divisions should grow into healthy, blooming mums.
