Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Cottage Apricot' (21)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Cottage Apricot' exhibits a stunning display of vibrant, apricot-colored flowers that captivate the eye with their warm, inviting hue. The blossoms are full and lush, composed of a multitude of petals that radiate from the center, creating a pompom-like effect. These petals may exhibit a range of shades, from a deeper apricot at the base to a paler, almost creamy hue at the tips, which adds depth and complexity to their appearance. The flowers are perched atop sturdy stems that are clothed in rich green foliage. The leaves are deeply lobed, with a slightly toothed edge lending a textured look to the plant’s overall greenery. The contrast between the apricot flowers and the green leaves is striking, making the blooms stand out all the more. In full bloom, Chrysanthemum 'Cottage Apricot' presents a bushy, mounded shape that becomes a lush backdrop for its colorful floral display. The Chrysanthemum 'Cottage Apricot' is a favorite for adding a burst of late-season color to gardens, and its robust blossoms are also sought after for cut flower arrangements, where their lasting beauty can be enjoyed indoors.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Cottage Apricot Chrysanthemum, Hardy Chrysanthemum, Garden Mum, Mum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Cottage Apricot' (21).
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, including the variety 'Cottage Apricot', are not highly toxic to humans, but they can cause mild irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. If ingested, they may cause symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and skin rashes. Contact with the skin can sometimes result in dermatitis. It is generally advisable to avoid ingesting any part of these plants to prevent potential stomach upset.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats. The toxic principles in these plants are sesquiterpene lactones, pyrethrins, and other potential irritants. If a pet ingests chrysanthemums, symptoms of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to depression and loss of appetite. It is important to keep these plants out of reach of pets and to seek veterinary attention immediately if poisoning is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Apricot
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant colors and beautiful blooms to gardens and landscapes.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, aiding in pollination.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers visual interest in fall when many other plants begin to decline.
- Easy to Grow: Known for being easy to cultivate and maintain in a variety of soil types.
- Versatility: Can be grown in borders, containers, or used as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has a good level of tolerance to dry conditions.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Companion Planting: Chrysanthemums can deter pests from neighboring plants in vegetable gardens or ornamental beds, providing a natural form of pest control.
- Fabric Dye: The petals of Chrysanthemums can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, giving a soft apricot hue to textiles.
- Culinary Garnish: Petals of edible varieties of Chrysanthemums may be used to add color and a mild flavor to salads and other dishes.
- Photography Prop: The striking color of Chrysanthemum flowers can be used by photographers as a prop to enhance portrait and macro photography.
- Biological Studies: These flowers can be used in educational settings for studies on pollination and the life cycle of plants.
- Floral Crafts: Dried Chrysanthemum flowers can be used in making potpourri, wreaths, and other dried floral arrangements.
- Soil Health Indicator: Chrysanthemums can indicate the health of soil; they may not flourish in suboptimal conditions, signaling the need for soil improvement.
- Feng Shui: In some cultures, Chrysanthemums are used in feng shui to bring happiness and laughter into the home.
- Aromatherapy: The scent of Chrysanthemum flowers can be used in making scented candles and oils that promote relaxation and reduce stress.
- Bookmark Crafting: Pressed Chrysanthemum flowers can be used to create unique and decorative bookmarks.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui to attract positive energy and promote happiness. Place Chrysanthemums in areas where you want to introduce Yang energy, such as living rooms or offices to encourage sociability and good spirits. Choose bright, welcoming colors like the apricot hue of 'Cottage Apricot' to invigorate and uplift spaces.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums have long been associated with long life and perpetual youth, partly because of their ability to bloom into the late autumn when many other plants have faded.
- Rebirth and Renewal: They symbolize the cycle of life, death, and rebirth as they die in winter and return anew in the spring.
- Joy and Happiness: With their bright and cheerful appearance, chrysanthemums are often given as gifts to spread joy and lift spirits.
- Loyalty and Devotion: In several cultures, giving chrysanthemums represents a pledge of fidelity and faithfulness in relationships.
- Friendship: Chrysanthemums are also symbolic of strong, supportive friendships, likely because they continue to flourish as the colder season approaches, just as true friends stand by each other in tough times.
- Cleansing and Purity: Some cultures use chrysanthemums in rituals to dispel negativity and purify spaces, possibly due to their potent insecticidal properties.
WaterMums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Cottage Apricot', should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this equates to watering once every week, although the frequency may increase during hot, dry periods. It's best to water these plants deeply, allowing the water to penetrate several inches into the soil, which encourages strong root growth. A good rule of thumb is to provide the mums with about 1 gallon of water per watering session for each plant, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging the soil. Ensure that the plant is in well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
LightThe Chrysanthemum 'Cottage Apricot' thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal location would offer 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hotter climates. A spot that receives morning light and is protected from the intense heat of the late afternoon sun is often ideal for these mums.
TemperatureMums prefer moderate conditions and will do well in temperatures ranging from 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive short periods outside of this range, with a minimum survival temperature around 32 degrees Fahrenheit and a maximum around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. For optimum growth and flowering, maintain the temperature within the ideal range as much as possible.
PruningPruning mums, such as the Chrysanthemum 'Cottage Apricot', is essential to maintain their shape and encourage bushy growth and more blooms. Pinch back the tips of the branches in early summer before flower buds have formed. The best time to do a more substantial prune is after the blooming season has ended, usually in late fall or early winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Chrysanthemum 'Cottage Apricot,' a well-draining soil mix is crucial; one option is to combine equal parts garden soil, peat, and perlite or sand. This plant prefers a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0, which is slightly acidic to neutral.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years to replenish the soil and provide room for growth. It's best to repot in the spring before the growing season begins.
Humidity & MistingMums thrive in a range of humidity levels but prefer a moderate level. Aim for a humidity level between 40% to 60% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil consistently moist.
Outdoor
Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil and space plants.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Cottage Apricot' (also known as Hardy Chrysanthemum) begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically in the spring when the soil warms. After germination, it enters the seedling stage, where it establishes its root system and grows its first true leaves. As it matures into the vegetative stage, the plant develops a bushy structure with numerous branches and leaves, preparing for flowering. The flowering phase occurs in late summer to fall when the plant produces apricot-colored blossoms that attract pollinators. As winter approaches, the Chrysanthemum 'Cottage Apricot' enters dormancy, with the above-ground portions dying back while the roots survive underground. In the following spring, the plant regenerates from its root system, beginning a new life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Cottage Apricot', commonly known as mums, can be propagated most effectively through division. This process is best done in the spring, as new growth begins. To propagate by division, the gardener should carefully lift the entire plant out of the ground, ensuring a generous amount of dirt clings to the roots. Once the plant is out, a sharp spade or knife can be used to split the root ball into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system attached. These sections can then be immediately replanted in well-draining soil, spaced about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth. After replanting, the divisions should be watered thoroughly to help establish them in their new locations.
