Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Dulwich Pink' (21d)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Dulwich Pink' is known for its vibrant and eye-catching flowers that add a splash of color to gardens and floral arrangements. The plant displays an abundance of stunning pink blooms, each composed of numerous petite, delicate petals radiating out from a central disc. These striking flowers have a soft yet vivid pink hue that can range from pastel to a more intense shade, depending on environmental conditions. The leaves of Chrysanthemum 'Dulwich Pink' are typically deep green, with a smooth surface and a slightly serrated edge that gives them a textured look. They are arranged alternately along the stem, providing a lush backdrop for the brilliant flowers. This chrysanthemum variety is known for its bushy growth habit, with stems that branch out generously, creating a dense and full appearance. The flowering heads are generally held aloft on sturdy stems, presenting the blooms in an eye-catching manner that's perfect for cutting gardens or decorative displays. Chrysanthemum 'Dulwich Pink' is not only admired for its aesthetic appeal but is also known for its durability and longevity as a cut flower, making it a popular choice for bouquets and floral arrangements. With the proper care, the blooms can provide long-lasting color both in the garden and indoors.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Mum, Chrysanthemum, Hardy Chrysanthemum, Garden Mum, Florist's Chrysanthemum.
Common names
Dendranthema 'Dulwich Pink', Leucanthemum 'Dulwich Pink'.
ToxicityTo humans
The chrysanthemum is generally considered to have low toxicity to humans. If ingested, parts of the plant can cause irritation to the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and salivation. Contact with the skin can sometimes result in dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. If ingested, they can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. More severe reactions could potentially include signs of systemic involvement like increased heart rate, which would require immediate veterinary attention.
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- Attractive Aesthetics: Chrysanthemum 'Dulwich Pink' adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes with its pink blooms.
- Extended Blooming Season: These chrysanthemums have a long flowering period from late summer to fall, providing color when other plants start to fade.
- Pollinator Friendly: The flowers attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, helping to maintain a healthy ecosystem.
- Versatility: They can be used in borders, container gardens, and as cut flowers, adding versatility to gardening design.
- Low Maintenance: Chrysanthemums are known for being relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, they can tolerate periods of drought, making them suitable for gardens with less frequent watering.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Chrysanthemums can be made into a natural dye. The 'Dulwich Pink' variety can contribute to shades of pink and purple depending on the mordant used.
- These flowers can be used in companion planting to help deter pests from vegetable gardens due to their insecticidal properties.
- Chrysanthemum plants can be added to compost piles to enhance the nutrient content of the compost with their high nitrogen levels.
- The dried petals of 'Dulwich Pink' chrysanthemums can be used to create potpourri mixes for a fragrant addition to the home.
- They can be utilized as a natural fabric decoration, where petals are pressed into cloths to create unique patterns and designs.
- The flowers can serve as biodegradable confetti for outdoor events to reduce waste and environmental impact.
- Chrysanthemum 'Dulwich Pink' can be used in creating floral waters or floral-infused oils for use in homemade perfumes or scents.
- They can be incorporated into art projects and crafts, such as making bookmarks, greeting cards, or pressed flower art.
- In certain cultures, chrysanthemum flowers are symbolic and used for festive decorations during special occasions like weddings or traditional ceremonies.
- The stems and leaves of the chrysanthemum can be woven or braided to create small, biodegradable garden decorations or supports for other plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is commonly used in Feng Shui for purification and bringing positive energy. As 'Dulwich Pink' is a variety of Chrysanthemum, it is recommended to place it in areas of the home where you want to introduce yang energy, such as the living room, to promote joy and good health.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and immortality due to their hardiness and long blooming times.
- Rebirth: Their ability to bloom in the fall, a time when many other flowers are dying, links them with the theme of rebirth and renewal.
- Loyalty and Devotion: In many cultures, chrysanthemums are given as gifts to symbolize loyalty and devoted love.
- Joy and Optimism: Their bright and cheerful appearance has made chrysanthemums a symbol of joy and optimism in various cultures around the world.
WaterMums, like the Chrysanthemum 'Dulwich Pink', prefer evenly moist soil, so water them thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Depending on climate conditions and indoor heating, this might equate to watering once every 7 to 10 days. Typically, each plant should receive about a gallon of water, ensuring even distribution around the base of the plant without wetting the foliage. Adjust the frequency to account for humid conditions or rainfall if planted outside. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage.
LightMums thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, so placing your Chrysanthemum 'Dulwich Pink' near a south- or west-facing window where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight a day is ideal. However, they should be protected from the harsh midday sun, especially in the heat of summer, to prevent scorching of the leaves.
TemperatureThe Chrysanthemum 'Dulwich Pink' prefers temperate conditions and is hardy in zones 5 through 9. The ideal growing temperatures range from 60°F to 70°F. While mums can withstand brief periods down to freezing (32°F), they should be protected from sustained cold and frost, and they are also not tolerant of extreme heat above 80°F.
PruningPruning encourages bushier growth and more blooms in Chrysanthemum 'Dulwich Pink'. Pinch back the tips of the stems in late spring when they are about 6 inches tall, then continue to do so every few weeks until mid-summer. Stop pruning in early August to allow flower buds to form for a fall display. Remove spent blooms to maintain plant vigor and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of around 6.5. A mix of one-third peat moss, one-third compost, and one-third garden loam or perlite is ideal for Chrysanthemum 'Dulwich Pink'.
RepottingChrysanthemums should generally be repotted every one to two years or when they become root-bound or overcrowded.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemums like 'Dulwich Pink' prefer average household humidity levels, but they can tolerate lower humidity without adverse effects.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, good air circulation, and regular watering for indoor mums.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, use well-draining soil, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Dulwich Pink', commonly known as mums or chrysanthemums, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates, typically in early spring, requiring well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. The seedling emerges and develops into a vegetative state, producing stems, leaves, and a robust root system. As the plant matures, it undergoes a vegetative growth phase during spring and summer, where it builds up the energy required for blooming. In response to shorter daylight hours and cooler temperatures in late summer to autumn, the plant enters the flowering stage, showcasing pink blossoms which attract pollinators and can be deadheaded to encourage further blooming. Once the blooming period is over and frost arrives, the chrysanthemum enters a period of dormancy, with the top growth dying back while the root system remains alive underground. The plant can regrow from these roots the following spring, continuing its perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Chrysanthemum 'Dulwich Pink', commonly known as the hardy garden mum, is best propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this plant. Division involves separating the plant's dense clump of roots into smaller sections, ideally in the spring just as the new growth is emerging. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant and gently tease apart the root ball into smaller divisions, each with several shoots and a healthy portion of roots. These divisions should be immediately replanted in well-draining soil, spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45.72 centimeters) apart to give them room to grow. Water the new plants thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This method of propagation helps rejuvenate older clumps that may have become woody and less vigorous, ensuring a continuous supply of robust garden mums.
