White Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Dance White' (9f)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Dance White', commonly known as mum, is an ornamental plant known for its beautiful and vibrant display. This particular variety features an abundance of pure white flowers that tend to dominate its appearance. The flowers are composed of tightly packed petals that radiate outwards from a central disk, giving them a full and lush look. Each petal is smooth and may exhibit a slight curvature at the tips, adding to the flower's overall aesthetic appeal. The leaves of the mum are deep green, with a slightly lobed and toothed margin; they form a dense foliage that provides a striking contrast against the white flowers. The plant has a bushy growth habit, creating a rounded and mounded form that is completely covered in blooms when it reaches the peak of its flowering season. The overall charm of the Chrysanthemum 'Dance White' lies in its crisp, pristine flowers and the neat presentation of its foliage, making it a favored choice for gardeners looking to add a classic touch of elegance to their flower beds, borders, or containers. Its white blossoms are particularly popular for creating a sense of calm and purity in a garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dance White Mum, Dance White Chrysanthemum, Dance White Hardy Chrysanthemum
Common names
Dendranthema 'Dance White', Leucanthemum 'Dance White'.
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, including 'Dance White', contain substances such as pyrethrins that can be mildly toxic to humans if ingested. Generally, the plant is not considered highly poisonous, but ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some cases, contact with the skin may cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals. It is advisable to handle chrysanthemums with care and discourage consumption.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. The toxicity is due to compounds called pyrethrins and other related pyrethroids. If a pet ingests any part of a chrysanthemum, symptoms of poisoning may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious conditions such as depression, hypothermia, and muscle tremors. Pet owners should prevent their animals from eating chrysanthemums and seek veterinary attention if they suspect poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Spread
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to gardens and landscapes with its bright white flowers.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees and butterflies, which are important pollinators for many plants and eco-systems.
- Versatility: Can be used in mixed borders, pots, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooms in the fall, providing color and interest when many other plants are declining.
- Easy to Grow: Adaptable to a variety of soil types and requires minimal maintenance once established.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photographic backgrounds: The white flowers of chrysanthemums can be used to provide a natural and neutral backdrop for macro photography, enhancing the subject being photographed.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists may use the intricate patterns and pristine color of 'Dance White' chrysanthemums as a reference for botanical illustrations or patterns in artwork.
- Edible decorations: Although not common, the petals of 'Dance White' chrysanthemums can be crystallized or used fresh to decorate cakes and desserts, after ensuring they are free from pesticides.
- Dye for fabrics: The flowers can be used to create a light natural dye for fabrics, although the color may be subtle and vary depending on the mordant used.
- Educational purposes: Chrysanthemums can be a part of plant biology curricula, where students can study their growth, morphology, and reproduction up close.
- Companion planting: Chrysanthemums can be planted in vegetable gardens to attract beneficial insects, though care should be taken as they can also sometimes attract pests.
- Bookmark crafting: Dried petals of chrysanthemums can be laminated or pressed within heavy books to create natural bookmarks.
- Floral baths: Petals of 'Dance White' chrysanthemums can be added to bathwater for a luxurious and fragrant floral bath experience.
- Natural confetti: The petals can be dried and used as biodegradable confetti for weddings or other celebrations.
- Fragrance source: The petals may be used in homemade potpourris, or their scent extracted for natural air fresheners, though it would be milder compared to other more heavily scented flowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChrysanthemums, known commonly as mums, are used in Feng Shui to promote happiness and well-being. In the realm of Feng Shui, white mums in particular represent purity and truth. Placing white chrysanthemums in the living room or bedroom can introduce Yang energy, contributing to positive vibrations and good fortune.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and immortality due to their ability to bloom into the autumn, when other plants are fading.
- Purity and Innocence: The 'Dance White' variety, with its clear white petals, is often linked to themes of purity and innocence, echoing the color's traditional symbolic meanings.
- Grief and Lamentation: In some European cultures, white chrysanthemums are used as a symbol of grief and are often present at funerals or memorials.
- Rejuvenation and Recovery: Chrysanthemums can also represent the theme of recovery or a return to health, echoing the plant's rejuvenative qualities.
- Nobility and Honor: In Asian cultures, particularly Japan, the chrysanthemum is a noble flower, representing perfection and, in some cases, royalty.
WaterMums, like the Chrysanthemum 'Dance White', should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy, typically once every 2-3 days depending on weather conditions. The method should avoid wetting the foliage, so water at the base of the plant using a soaker hose or a watering can. During hot, dry periods, water may be necessary daily, especially for mums in containers. Mums planted in the ground may require roughly 1 gallon of water per week, but this can vary based on soil type and climate.
LightMums require full sun to thrive, so the 'Dance White' Chrysanthemum should be placed where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for your Chrysanthemum 'Dance White' is in a garden area that provides morning sunlight and some afternoon shade in hot climates to protect it from the intense heat, although this variety can tolerate full sun throughout the day.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature for 'Dance White' Chrysanthemums ranges from 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit at night. They can survive minimum temperatures down to 32 degrees Fahrenheit, but frost can damage the plant. It's crucial to protect them from extreme cold and ensure that they're not exposed to temperatures beyond their maximum tolerance of around 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the growing season.
PruningPruning is essential for Chrysanthemums, including 'Dance White', to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch back the growing tips and the first set of leaves every 2 to 3 weeks from when the new growth appears in early spring until about mid-July. Stop pruning by the end of July to allow flower buds to form. The best time for heavy pruning is early spring when you should cut back last year's stems to 1-2 inches above the ground to make way for new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining soil rich in organic matter, so for Chrysanthemum 'Dance White,' a mix of loam, peat, and perlite would be ideal. They prefer a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Amend the soil with compost before planting to enhance fertility and water retention.
RepottingMums like Chrysanthemum 'Dance White' should be repotted once they outgrow their current pot, which is typically every 1-2 years. Repot in spring before the growing season starts for best results.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemum 'Dance White' prefers moderate humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%. Avoid overly dry environments as this can stress the plant and lead to problems with pests or disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in bright indirect light, moderate humidity, feed monthly in growth.
Outdoor
Place in full sun to partial shade, protect from harsh weather.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Dance White', commonly known as "mum", begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in well-drained soil under the right conditions of warmth and moisture. Upon sprouting, the seedling emerges, developing roots and a pair of leaves as it begins photosynthesis. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it grows a robust stem and a lush foliage, preparing for the budding phase. During the budding phase, flower buds form and gradually open to reveal the plant’s signature white blossoms, renowned for their ornamental value. After pollination, which may involve insects or wind, the flowers produce seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. Lastly, in regions with cold winters, chrysanthemums enter a period of dormancy, surviving underground as perennials, or they may succumb to frost if treated as annuals, with new plants grown from seeds or cuttings the following season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Dance White' is typically propagated through division, a process often carried out in the spring or early summer to allow sufficient time for the new plants to establish themselves before the onset of cold weather. The most popular method involves carefully digging up the mature plant and gently separating the clumps by hand or with a sharp knife, ensuring each division has a portion of the root system and several shoots for successful growth. The divisions are then planted in well-draining soil, spaced approximately 18 to 24 inches apart (45 to 60 centimeters), and watered thoroughly to encourage root development. It's important to maintain even moisture and provide light fertilization during the initial growth phase to promote healthy establishment of the divided Chrysanthemums.
