Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum Debonair = 'Yodebo' (22c)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum Debonair, also known as the 'Yodebo', is a particularly striking variety notable for its visually captivating attributes. Its appearance is characterized by a robust display of flowers that exude a sense of lushness and vitality. Each bloom brandishes a set of intricately arranged petals that overlap, creating a pompom-like effect that is both dense and textured. The petals themselves present a rich, deep hue that could be likened to a burgundy or wine color, while the tips may exhibit a paler shade, offering a subtle and delightful contrast. As the petals unfold towards the edges, one can appreciate the gradation of color that adds depth and dimension to the flower's overall aesthetic. The foliage of the 'Yodebo' provides a complementary backdrop to the blooms with its deep green leaves. These leaves are typically oblong with jagged or serrated edges, lending a touch of coarseness that contrasts the refined shape of the blooms. Together, the flowers and foliage create an elegant and showy display, making the Chrysanthemum Debonair a popular choice for adding a touch of sophistication to gardens and decorative arrangements. The visual impact of this plant is far-reaching, as it stands out among others with its distinctive color and form, making it a beloved specimen for those seeking to infuse their spaces with a sense of grandeur and beauty.
About this plant
- Names
Synonyms
Debonair Chrysanthemum, Yodebo Chrysanthemum, Hardy Chrysanthemum, Mum, Garden Mum.
Common names
Chrysanthemum × morifolium 'Yodebo', Dendranthema × grandiflorum 'Yodebo'.
- Toxicity
To humans
Chrysanthemums, including the Chrysanthemum Debonair 'Yodebo,' are not typically considered highly toxic to humans. However, they can cause irritation if their sap comes into contact with the skin, leading to dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Ingestion can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases and with significant consumption, symptoms might be more severe. It is generally advisable to avoid eating any parts of chrysanthemums.
To pets
Chrysanthemums, including the Chrysanthemum Debonair 'Yodebo,' are toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. The plant contains compounds like sesquiterpene, lactones, and pyrethrins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis upon contact. Symptoms can vary based on the amount ingested. If a pet consumes part of a chrysanthemum, it is recommended to contact a veterinarian, as they may require supportive care and treatment.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet (61 cm)
Spread
2 feet (61 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Aesthetic Appeal - The Chrysanthemum Debonair, also known as Mum 'Yodebo', features striking blooms that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Versatility in Landscaping - With its vibrant flowers, it is suitable for a variety of landscaping themes and can be used in borders, beds, and containers.
- Seasonal Color - Mums bloom in the late summer through fall, providing color when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Attracts Pollinators - The flowers attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Easy to Grow - Mums are known for being low-maintenance and easy to cultivate, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Durability - These plants are relatively hardy, able to withstand cooler temperatures and light frosts, extending their display into late fall.
- Cut Flower Use - The blossoms of the Mum 'Yodebo' hold up well when cut, making them excellent choices for floral arrangements.
- Medical Properties
- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Artistic Medium: Artists use the Chrysanthemum flowers and leaves to create organic patterns in eco-printing, where the plant materials leave natural pigments on paper or textiles.
- Fabric Dyeing: The petals of the Chrysanthemum can be used to create a natural yellow or green dye for coloring fabrics, depending on the mordant used.
- Culinary Garnish: The petals, being edible, can be used to garnish salads or desserts, adding a splash of color and a mild, slightly bitter flavor.
- Natural Confetti: Dried Chrysanthemum petals can serve as biodegradable confetti for celebrations, reducing the environmental impact compared to synthetic confetti.
- Fish Tanks: Certain aquarists use the flowers to naturally decorate their freshwater fish tanks, often after proper processing to ensure they're safe for the aquatic environment.
- Fragrance Sachets: Dried Chrysanthemum flowers, known for their pleasant scent, can be placed in sachets to freshen drawers and closets.
- Photography Props: Chrysanthemum flowers can be used as photogenic props in still life photography, adding elegance and color to the composition.
- Bookmark Creation: Pressed Chrysanthemum flowers can be incorporated into handmade bookmarks, often laminated or encased in clear resin.
- Plant Dye for Soaps: The natural dyes from the petals can be used in soap making, providing a chemical-free colorant option for homemade soaps.
- Flower Arranging Classes: Chrysanthemums are often used in educational settings for teaching the art of flower arranging due to their diverse forms and colors.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui to attract positive energy and promote happiness and laughter. It can be placed in living areas to encourage a joyful and relaxing atmosphere.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums have been associated with long life and perpetuity due to their hardy nature and ability to survive the first frost of the season.
- Rebirth and Renewal: As blooms that are often associated with autumn, chrysanthemums symbolize the idea of renewal and the cycle of life as seasons change.
- Respect and Honor: In some cultures, such as Japan, the chrysanthemum represents nobility and honor, and is often used in ceremonial practices.
- Loyalty and Devotion: Often given as gifts, chrysanthemums can symbolize the steadfast loyalty and devotion between friends or family members.
- Joy and Optimism: With their bright and cheerful flowers, chrysanthemums can stand for joy and the power of positivity.
- Authenticity and Sincerity: The chrysanthemum is sometimes given to represent genuineness in one's character and actions.
- Water
Mums, such as Chrysanthemum Debonair 'Yodebo', prefer evenly moist soil, so ensure the planting medium never dries out completely. Water deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which might be approximately once a week, but frequency can vary based on environmental conditions. Provide the plant with about one gallon of water at each watering session to ensure the soil is thoroughly moistened. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water more frequently, whereas during cooler, cloudier periods, you might reduce watering. Overwatering can cause root issues, so it's critical to ensure the pot has good drainage.
- Light
Mums thrive in full sunlight, so place Chrysanthemum Debonair 'Yodebo' in a location where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. If the plant is indoors, a sunny south-facing window is ideal. Avoid spots with heavy shade, as inadequate light can lead to weak growth and fewer blooms.
- Temperature
Mums do best in temperate conditions and Chrysanthemum Debonair 'Yodebo' is no exception. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 32 degrees Fahrenheit, though frost can be damaging, and maximum temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. To encourage bud development, a period of cooler temperatures at night, between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, is beneficial.
- Pruning
Prune mums like the Chrysanthemum Debonair 'Yodebo' to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch back the tips of the plant in early summer, removing about an inch of growth to stimulate branching. After flowering, cut back the stems to just above ground level to prepare the plant for winter. Pruning should be done annually, with the pinching back performed in the spring or early summer, and the cutback after the blooming season, typically in late fall.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
The best soil mix for a Chrysanthemum, commonly known as mum, should be well-draining with a mix of loam, peat moss, and perlite. The ideal pH range is between 6.5 to 6.7 to promote healthy growth.
- Repotting
Mums should be repotted every one to two years to replenish nutrients in the soil and accommodate root growth. Overcrowded plants benefit from repotting to maintain vigour.
- Humidity & Misting
Mums thrive with average indoor humidity levels around 40-60%. They can tolerate some variation but prefer consistent humidity for optimal growth.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Ensure bright indirect light, keep soil moist, and provide good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil with full sun to partial shade exposure.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
- Life cycle
The Chrysanthemum, specifically the 'Yodebo' Debonair variety, starts its life as a seed or more commonly from cuttings, which when planted, will germinate or root in moist soil within 1 to 3 weeks. After germination or initial root development, the seedling or rooted cutting enters a vegetative growth phase where it develops a rosette of leaves and begins to establish a strong root system. As the plant matures and environmental conditions permit, usually in late summer to fall, it undergoes a transition to the flowering stage, prompted by shorter daylight hours. Flower buds emerge and bloom into the characteristic full, bushy flowers that can vary in color, typically lasting for several weeks. After blooming, if the flowers are not deadheaded, they will go to seed, completing the reproductive cycle. Following flowering, the plant enters a period of dormancy during the colder months, but with proper care, including pruning and mulching, it can overwinter and re-emerge the following spring.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The Chrysanthemum Debonair, commonly known as hardy garden mum, is typically propagated through division, which is the most popular method. This process involves carefully separating a mature plant into smaller sections, each with its own roots, and is best performed in spring as new growth begins. The gardener should dig up the entire plant, making sure to keep a significant amount of roots with each division. These divisions are then replanted at the same depth they were originally growing, spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45.72 centimeters) apart to give them ample room to spread. Regular watering and a light application of balanced fertilizer can then encourage the divisions to establish themselves in their new locations.