Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem' (29c)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem', commonly known as mum, features an eye-catching display of floral beauty. This variety is characterized by its lush foliage and a profusion of flowers that captivate onlookers. The leaves of the mum plant are typically dark green, deeply lobed with a somewhat coarse texture, creating a dense backdrop for the colorful blooms. The 'Dee Gem' blooms are the real show-stoppers – they have a distinctive and rich coloration that can include shades ranging from deep reds to purples. Each bloom is composed of numerous petals that are tightly packed together, forming a pompon-like appearance. These petals may have a velvety texture, which adds to the luxurious feel of the flowers. The blossoms are generally quite full and rounded, offering a generous splash of color when the plant is in full bloom. The overall visual effect of the Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem' is one of vibrant color and lushness, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a striking feature to their flower beds or borders. Its decorative appeal also makes it a favorite for cut-flower arrangements, where the vivid blooms can bring indoor spaces to life with their rich hues and full form.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Hardy Chrysanthemum, Mum, Garden Mum, Florist's Chrysanthemum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem'
ToxicityTo humans
Mums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem', are generally considered to have low toxicity to humans. However, if ingested in large quantities, they can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Individuals with a sensitivity to the plant may experience dermatitis upon contact with the leaves or sap.
To pets
Mums are toxic to pets, particularly dogs, cats, and horses. If ingested, mums can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion could lead to more serious conditions like liver failure, though such extreme reactions are rare. It is important to prevent pets from consuming any part of the plant to avoid these adverse effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Beautification: Adds vibrant colors and aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes with its bright, daisy-like flowers.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which help pollinate other plants.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers late-season blooms when many other plants have finished flowering, thereby extending the garden's visual interest into fall.
- Low Maintenance: Typically easy to care for, requiring minimal attention once established in the right conditions.
- Versatility: Can be used in a variety of garden designs, including borders, bedding, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Psychological Wellbeing: The presence of flowering plants like the Chrysanthemum can enhance mood and reduce stress levels in humans.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Dye: The petals of Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem' can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics or paper, providing a range of colors from yellow to greenish-yellow, depending on the mordant used.
- Plant Markers: The sturdy stems of the Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem' can be trimmed and used as natural plant markers or stakes in the garden.
- Decorative Potpourri: Dried flowers of the Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem' add color and a mild fragrance to homemade potpourri blends.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not a traditional use, the petals of food-grade Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem' can be used as a decorative garnish for salads and desserts, provided they have not been treated with pesticides.
- Bookmarks: Dried Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem' flowers can be laminated or pressed to create unique, natural bookmarks.
- Natural Confetti: The petals can be tossed as biodegradable confetti for outdoor celebrations, leaving no harmful residue behind.
- Photography Subject: Due to their vibrant colors and intricate forms, Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem' flowers make excellent subjects for botanical photography.
- Crafting Material: The dried flowers can be incorporated into handmade paper or used in various other crafting projects like making ornaments or inclusion in resin art.
- Compost Ingredient: Spent Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem' plants can be added to the compost pile, contributing to the nutrient cycle and sustainable gardening practices.
- Soil Health Indicator: In some cases, gardeners observe the health of Chrysanthemums to gauge the overall condition of the soil, as these plants can reflect nutrient deficiencies or pest issues.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is associated with happiness and laughter in Feng Shui and is often recommended for bringing positive energy into the home. To utilize its attributes, place chrysanthemums in areas where lively energy is beneficial like the living room or family room.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and well-being, partly because they can withstand frost and bloom into the fall, representing resilience and endurance.
- Rebirth and Renewal: As flowers that bloom in the autumn, chrysanthemums symbolize the idea of renewal and the cycle of life, as they bring color and life to a fading season.
- Joy and Happiness: Chrysanthemums bring bright splashes of color often during celebrations, suggesting happiness and cheerfulness.
- Friendship: In some cultures, giving a chrysanthemum to a friend is a gesture of goodwill and a symbol of a strong, supportive friendship.
- Loyalty and Devotion: They can be given to represent fidelity and devoted love, often present in bouquets and arrangements for various ceremonies.
- Nobility: In some Asian cultures, particularly Japan, the chrysanthemum is a noble flower, associated with royalty and refinement.
WaterMums, including the 'Dee Gem' variety, should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. You should water the plant deeply, ensuring that the water penetrates several inches into the soil. In general, watering with about 1 gallon per plant once a week during moderate temperatures is sufficient. However, during hotter periods or in well-draining soil, you may need to water more frequently, such as every 3 to 5 days. To prevent disease, avoid splashing the foliage and instead water directly at the base of the plant.
LightMums prefer full sunlight to thrive, so the 'Dee Gem' should be planted in a spot where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. A south-facing location is ideal to ensure the mum gets ample sunlight. If the light conditions are too dim or the plant gets too much shade, it may not flower abundantly.
TemperatureMums, including the 'Dee Gem', grow best in temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and between 55 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit at night. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of just above freezing, but frost will damage the plant. Avoid exposure to extremes, as temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plant and speed up flowering, leading to a shorter blooming period.
PruningPruning 'Dee Gem' mums is crucial for maintaining a compact, bushy growth habit and for stimulating the development of more flower buds. Pinch back the tips of the shoots when they are 4 to 6 inches tall, leaving 2 to 3 leaves on the stem. Continue to pinch once a month through midsummer to encourage branching. The best time for the last pinch is around the Fourth of July.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem', or commonly known as mums, the best soil mix is one that is well-draining and fertile. A mixture of two parts potting soil to one part peat moss or compost and one part perlite or sand will offer good aeration and nutrient levels. Mums prefer a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years, ideally in the spring before the onset of vigorous growth. Over time, the soil can become compacted and nutrient-depleted, so repotting in fresh soil will help maintain the health and vigor of the plant.
Humidity & MistingMums thrive best in environments with moderate humidity levels. While they can tolerate some variation, the ideal range is between 40% to 60% humidity. Avoid placing them in overly dry or extremely humid conditions which can lead to stress and disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, with moderate humidity, water when topsoil feels dry.
Outdoor
Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, and regular watering but not waterlogged.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA.
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem', commonly known as mums, begins its life cycle as a seed, where it germinates in warm and moist conditions to produce a small seedling. This seedling then develops into a vegetative stage, characterized by vigorous leaf growth, creating a bushy plant structure capable of supporting future blooms. As the plants mature, they enter the pre-flowering stage where budding begins, typically triggered by shorter day lengths in late summer to early fall. The flowering stage follows, where the plant showcases a profusion of colorful blooms which can last for several weeks, attracting pollinators and adding aesthetic value. After flowering, the plant enters a senescence phase where leaves and flowers wither, marking the end of the growing season. Finally, the plant either goes dormant for the winter, storing energy in its roots for regrowth in spring, or completes its cycle by setting seeds, which can be collected for propagation or left to self-sow, continuing its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Chrysanthemum 'Dee Gem', often simply known as mums, is through the division of established plants. This is ideally done in the spring when new growth begins to appear but after the threat of frost has passed. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the parent plant and use a sharp spade or knife to split the root ball into smaller sections, each with a portion of the root system and several shoots. These divisions should then be replanted at the same depth they were originally growing, spaced approximately 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) apart, to allow for adequate air circulation and room for growth. Water immediately after planting to help establish the new divisions. Regular watering and fertilization will encourage strong growth for the upcoming blooming season.
