Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie' (19c)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie' is a particularly vibrant and attractive variety of the commonly known chrysanthemum or mum. This cultivar is celebrated for its lavish and decorative blooms that demonstrate a striking cherry-red color. The individual flowers are composed of an abundance of layered petals that are densely packed, creating a lush, full appearance that can resemble a pompon. Each petal exhibits a streamlined, spoon-shaped form that taper gently to a soft point, contributing to the overall rounded shape of the flower heads. The foliage of 'Cherry Nathalie' is deep green, providing a lush backdrop that enhances the brilliant red of the blooms. The leaves are typically oblong with a slightly serrated edge, lending a textured look to the plant even when it's not in flower. Overall, the juxtaposition of the lively cherry-red flowers against the hearty green foliage makes this chrysanthemum a stunning ornamental choice for those seeking a plant with vivid color and a classic, yet robust floral display. Its sumptuous blossoms make it a popular choice for both garden displays and cut flower arrangements, where it adds a splash of dynamic color and voluminous form.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Garden Mum, Florist's Chrysanthemum, Hardy Chrysanthemum.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie'
ToxicityTo humans
The Chrysanthemum, commonly known as mum, can cause dermatitis in some people upon contact. If ingested, it can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and salivation. It contains compounds that can be irritating to the gastrointestinal tract.
To pets
Mums are toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. If ingested, they can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious conditions like depression and a loss of appetite. Pet owners should ensure these plants are out of reach of their animals to prevent accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie' adds vibrant color and beauty to gardens and landscapes with its rich, cherry-red blossoms.
- Pollinator Attraction: This variety of chrysanthemums can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are essential for the pollination of many plants.
- Seasonal Interest: Chrysanthemums are known for their autumn blooming, providing color and interest in the garden when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Versatility: They can be used in a variety of settings including borders, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Easy to Grow: Chrysanthemums are generally easy to care for and can thrive in a range of garden conditions, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Durability: They are relatively hardy and can resist cooler temperatures, often continuing to bloom into the late fall.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural Insect Repellent: Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie' can be used to ward off insects due to the naturally occurring compound pyrethrin found in the flowers.
- Biodegradable Pesticide: The flowers can be processed into a biodegradable pesticide that is harmful to insects but less toxic to mammals and the environment than synthetic alternatives.
- Art and Craft Supply: The petals can be used in art projects, such as for making natural dyes or in potpourri mixes for their vibrant colors and pleasant fragrance.
- Horticultural Research: The plant can be used in research studies to understand plant breeding and the genetics of flower color and growth patterns.
- Photography Subject: Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie' with its unique appearance is often used by photographers as a subject to enhance their portfolio with images of natural beauty.
- Educational Tool: The plant can be used in schools or educational programs to demonstrate plant growth, pollination, and horticultural practices.
- Companion Planting: Gardeners sometimes use Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie' in vegetable gardens to help deter pests from more vulnerable crops.
- Colorant for Fabrics: The rich hues of the petals can be used to stain or color natural fibers, creating unique patterns on fabrics.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not commonly consumed, the petals can be used to add a splash of color to salads or desserts after proper cleaning and ensuring they are free from pesticides.
- Floral Arrangement Classes: This variety of chrysanthemum is often featured in floral design classes due to its unique aesthetic and the challenge it presents for arrangement techniques.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is associated with happiness and well-being in Feng Shui. Place Chrysanthemums in areas of the home where you want to introduce vibrant yang energy, like living rooms, to promote good health and dissipate negativity.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums, often simply known as "mums," are frequently associated with longevity due to their hardy nature and ability to bloom into the late autumn, suggesting an enduring life.
- Rejuvenation and Recovery: The unfolding of the mum's petals symbolizes the ability to bounce back and represents the rejuvenation of the spirit.
- Loyalty and Devotion: In many cultures, mums are given as a sign of lasting friendship and loyalty. The intricate layers of the petals evoke feelings of deep attachment and devotion.
- Death and Grief: In some European countries, such as France and Poland, white chrysanthemums are symbolic of lamentation and are often used in funerary bouquets to honor the departed.
- Joy and Beauty: The vibrant color of the 'Cherry Nathalie' variety of mums suggests cheerfulness and positivity, making them emblems of beauty and the joy of life.
- Nobility: In certain historical contexts, particularly in Japan, the chrysanthemum is a noble flower, often associated with the imperial family and representing refinement and elegance.
WaterMums like Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie' need to be watered regularly to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during their growing season in the spring and summer. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which might be approximately once a week, but frequency depends on environmental conditions. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. When watering, apply water directly to the soil to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease, providing around one gallon per week for outdoor plants and adjusting as necessary for indoor potted plants.
LightMums, including Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie,' thrive best in full sunlight with at least 6 hours of direct light daily. Place them in a spot where they can receive ample morning light, which is less intense compared to the harsh afternoon sun. They can tolerate light partial shade, but too much shade may reduce flowering and overall vigor.
TemperatureMums like Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie' prefer temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures of 32 degrees Fahrenheit for short periods but are not frost-tolerant and should be protected or brought indoors if temperatures dip below freezing. The ideal range ensures optimal growth and blooming.
PruningPruning Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie' encourages bushier growth and more abundant blooms. Pinch back the growing tips when the plants are about 6 inches tall, and repeat every few weeks until midsummer. Stop pruning in early July to allow flower buds to form. Prune dead or faded flowers to promote a second bloom and overall plant health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for mums (Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie') should be well-draining and fertile, with a mix of loam, peat, and perlite or sand. The ideal pH level for mums is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingMums (Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie') should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth, ideally in the spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingMums (Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie') prefer moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%. Avoid excessively dry air to maintain healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place mums (Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie') in bright indirect light and water regularly.
Outdoor
Plant mums in well-draining soil with full to partial sunlight.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie' (19c), commonly referred to as Hardy Mum, begins its life cycle as a seed, where under the right conditions of warmth and moisture, it germinates and sprouts into a seedling. The seedling then develops into a young plant with a set of true leaves, establishing a root system that allows it to absorb nutrients from the soil. As it matures, the Hardy Mum enters a vegetative growth phase where it produces a bushy clump of foliage. Upon reaching maturity and subject to adequate light and temperature conditions, it transitions to the flowering stage, blooming with vibrant cherry-colored flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, it may produce seeds if not deadheaded, which then can disperse to give life to new plants. Eventually, the Hardy Mum enters a period of dormancy in response to colder temperatures, during which above-ground foliage dies back, but it can regrow from its root system when favorable conditions return.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Cherry Nathalie,' commonly known as hardy garden mum, is often propagated by division, a method commonly utilized in late spring once new growth appears. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established clump of the plant and gently tease apart the root mass into smaller sections, ensuring each section has a piece of the root system attached. These divisions can then be replanted into well-draining soil, spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart, and watered thoroughly to establish new plants that will bloom in the following season. This method is quite straightforward and allows gardeners to create multiple plants from a single mature specimen while also rejuvenating older plants that may have become too dense or woody at the center.
