Pink Daisy Chrysanthemum 'Clara Curtis' (21d)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Clara Curtis', commonly known as mum, is a perennial plant that is widely admired for its showy flowers. This plant features a dense mound of deep green, coarsely textured foliage. The leaves are lobed and can be slightly hairy, adding a soft texture to the plant's overall appearance. The real show-stoppers of the 'Clara Curtis' mum are its blooms. The flowers are daisy-like in shape and boast a vibrant pink hue with a cheerful yellow center, which is typical of many mum varieties. Each flower consists of a pretty array of petals that radiate around the center disk, creating an appealing contrast in colors. This particular variety of mum blooms in the late summer to fall, providing a burst of color when many other plants are starting to fade. The flower heads of 'Clara Curtis' are generously sized and numerous, covering the plant in a spectacular floral display that can be quite eye-catching in garden settings. With its cheerful and abundant blossoms, the 'Clara Curtis' mum is a favorite for gardens, borders, and decorative containers, bringing a splash of color to any outdoor space during the cooler times of the year. The overall appearance of this plant is one of lush foliage topped with profuse, colorful blooms that are both delightful to look at and attractive to pollinators, such as butterflies and bees.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Clara Curtis, Pink Daisy Mum, Dendranthema 'Clara Curtis'.
Common names
Dendranthema 'Clara Curtis', Chrysanthemum 'Country Girl'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Chrysanthemum, specifically the 'Clara Curtis' variety, is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, it may cause dermatitis or skin irritation in some individuals who have sensitivities. Ingesting parts of this plant may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in some individuals. It is generally recommended to avoid eating this plant.
To pets
Chrysanthemums, including the 'Clara Curtis' variety, are toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats, as they contain pyrethrins and other irritants. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to depression, hypersalivation, and neurologic signs. It is important to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the plant and to seek veterinary assistance if they do.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Chrysanthemum 'Clara Curtis' is known to attract bees and butterflies, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is low maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, making it accessible for beginners.
- Long Bloom Time: Offers an extended flowering period from late summer to fall, providing vibrant color for a longer duration.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has a good tolerance for drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Versatile Landscaping: Suitable for borders, containers, and as cut flowers, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The bright pink flowers add a splash of color to the garden landscape, enhancing its visual interest.
- Frost Resistance: It has a certain degree of frost resistance, making it suitable for cooler climates.
- Deer Resistance: The plant is not particularly favored by deer, which can help to prevent damage in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Insect repellent: The plant can be used in gardens to help naturally deter certain insects and pests.
- Dye production: The flowers can be used to produce a natural yellow or gold dye for textiles.
- Culinary garnish: The petals, being edible, can add a splash of color when used as a garnish for salads and desserts.
- Art supplies: The petals can also be used to make eco-friendly confetti or in craft projects for adding texture and color.
- Photography: With its vivid blooms, Chrysanthemum 'Clara Curtis' makes an excellent subject for botanical photographers.
- Companion planting: It can be used in vegetable gardens as a companion plant to attract beneficial insects that prey on pests.
- Cultural symbols: In some cultures, the flower is used as a symbol during certain festivals or ceremonies.
- Event decoration: Its flowers can be used in floral arrangements for weddings and other events due to their vibrant colors and shapes.
- Education: The plant can serve as a useful specimen for horticulture students learning about perennial plant care and propagation.
- Landscape management: Chrysanthemum 'Clara Curtis' can be utilized for erosion control, as its dense growth can help stabilize soil.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is associated with happiness and well-being in Feng Shui. Place this plant in areas of the home that require a boost in positive energy, such as living rooms or areas where family members gather, to promote a sense of joy and to invite good fortune.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums, in general, are often associated with longevity due to their hardiness and ability to survive the first frosts of autumn.
- Rebirth and Renewal: The 'Clara Curtis' variety, like many chrysanthemums, blooms in late summer and fall, symbolizing the cycle of rebirth and renewal as seasons change.
- Joy and Optimism: The bright and cheerful appearance of the Chrysanthemum 'Clara Curtis' suggests a sense of joy and optimism.
- Nobility: In some cultures, such as Japan, chrysanthemums are a symbol of nobility and dignity.
- Loyalty and Devotion: Due to their perennial nature, returning year after year, chrysanthemums like 'Clara Curtis' can represent loyalty and devotion in relationships.
WaterThe Hardy Chrysanthemum requires consistent moisture but is intolerant to water-logging. It should be watered deeply once a week with approximately one inch of water, which would be about 0.623 gallons for a medium-sized plant. During the peak summer months or drier periods, the frequency may need to be increased to ensure the soil doesn't dry out completely, but always allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Overhead watering should be avoided to prevent leaf and petal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant.
LightThe Hardy Chrysanthemum thrives in full sunlight conditions. It should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. While it can tolerate partial shade, too little light can result in weak stems and sparse flowering.
TemperatureThe Hardy Chrysanthemum can survive in a broad range of temperatures, from a minimum of 32 degrees Fahrenheit to a maximum that doesn't exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideally, the plant prefers to grow in daytime temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningHardy Chrysanthemums should be pruned to encourage bushiness and prevent legginess. Pinch back the growing tips when they are about 6 inches tall and repeat if necessary until mid-July. Pruning should be halted in late summer to allow flower buds to form. The best time for heavy pruning is in early spring, just as the new growth begins to show.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Chrysanthemum 'Clara Curtis', commonly known as the Pink Daisy Mum, is well-draining, fertile loam or sandy soil enriched with organic matter. The ideal pH level for the Pink Daisy Mum should range from 6.0 to 7.0. Regular amendment with compost and a balanced fertilizer will promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
RepottingPink Daisy Mums typically do not require frequent repotting as they are often grown as annuals; however, if grown as perennials, repotting every 2-3 years is sufficient. Ensure the new pot has ample room for root growth and fresh, suitable soil mix.
Humidity & MistingPink Daisy Mums thrive best in moderate humidity conditions. They do not have specific humidity requirements but benefit from environments that are not excessively dry. Misting the plants or adding a pebble tray with water underneath the pot can help maintain a good humidity level around the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, good air flow, and consistent watering.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, and regular deadheading.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Clara Curtis', commonly known as the pink daisy mum, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination, sprouts into a seedling. As it grows, it develops a robust root system and vegetative structures, eventually forming a clump of deeply lobed, dark green leaves. During its growing season, it elongates and branches to produce stems that will bear the signature bright pink, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers. After flowering in late summer to fall, it sets seeds which can be dispersed to produce new plants, although many cultivars are propagated vegetatively through division. In preparation for winter, the above-ground parts die back after frost in colder zones, yet the plant's root system remains alive underground. As spring arrives, the Chrysanthemum 'Clara Curtis' regrows from its hardy roots or surviving basal shoots, completing its perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Chrysanthemum 'Clara Curtis', commonly known as the Mum 'Clara Curtis', is through division. This is typically done in the early spring as new growth appears. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established mum plant and gently separate the plant into sections, ensuring each section has a portion of the root system intact. Replant these divisions immediately at the same depth they were originally growing, and water them thoroughly. Divisions should be spaced about 12 to 18 inches (approximately 30 to 45 centimeters) apart to allow sufficient room for growth. Proper care, including adequate sunlight and watering, will help these new plantings establish themselves and thrive, resulting in new Mum 'Clara Curtis' plants that will bloom in the following season.
