Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Fantasy'
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Fantasy' is a captivating plant that displays a lush, bushy array of vibrant foliage. It is adorned with an abundance of flowers that are revered for their unique and ornate appearance. The blossoms of this Chrysanthemum are known for their striking color, often a rich blend of hues that can include shades of pink, red, purple, yellow, or white. Each flower is composed of numerous petals that radiate outward, creating a full and rounded look. The petals can be solid in color or exhibit a gradient effect, with darker shades at the center that gradually lighten towards the petal edges, adding to the visual interest of the bloom. At the center of each flower, there is a distinctive eye which may contrast in color, providing an appealing focal point. The flowers are typically arranged in a dense, clustered fashion that contributes to an overall appearance of abundance and vibrancy. Beneath the spectacular display of flowers, the foliage of the Chrysanthemum 'Fantasy' comprises green leaves that have a slightly serrated margin and a textural appearance. These leaves act as the perfect backdrop, emphasizing the brilliant colors and intricate forms of the flowers. Together, the flowers and foliage make the Chrysanthemum 'Fantasy' a sought-after plant for gardens and decorative displays, offering a feast for the eyes and adding a touch of fantasy-like charm to any setting it graces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mums, Chrysanths, Garden Mum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Fantasy'.
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are not highly toxic to humans, but they can cause mild irritation when touched or ingested. If any part of the plant is ingested, it may result in symptoms including skin rash, redness, and itchiness due to dermatitis. In rare cases, ingestion could cause more serious symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or an allergic reaction. It is advisable to handle Chrysanthemums with care and to keep them away from children who might ingest them accidentally.
To pets
Chrysanthemums, or mums, are toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If a pet ingests any part of the plant, it can lead to symptoms of poisoning such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can cause more serious side effects like neurological damage or an allergic reaction. It is important to keep Chrysanthemums out of reach of pets and to contact a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Varies
Flower color
Varies
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- Decorative Appeal: Chrysanthemum 'Fantasy' is known for its vibrant and colorful flowers, adding aesthetic value to gardens and homes.
- Versatility: It can be used in a variety of garden settings, such as borders, container gardens, and as cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blossoms attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, which are important for pollination.
- Seasonal Interest: Chrysanthemums are known for their autumnal blooming period, bringing color and life to the garden in a season when many other plants are winding down.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is relatively low-maintenance, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
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 used in companion planting strategies to deter pests in vegetable gardens, such as repelling cabbage worms when planted near brassicas.
- The blooms can be used to make a natural insecticidal spray by steeping the flowers in hot water and then straining the liquid for use.
- In art, chrysanthemum petals have been used to create dyes for fabrics due to their intense colors.
- Chrysanthemum 'Fantasy' can be included in floral jewelry, such as earrings and necklaces, by drying and preserving the petals.
- The petals of chrysanthemums can be used in crafting for decorating picture frames, greeting cards, or bookmarks to add an organic touch.
- In some cultures, chrysanthemum flowers are floated in bowls of water as a part of spa and relaxation rituals for their beauty and calming presence.
- Photographers sometimes use chrysanthemum 'Fantasy' as a subject for macro photography workshops due to its intricate details and vibrant color.
- The shape and structure of chrysanthemum flowers can inspire patterns and designs in architectural elements or home decor items.
- Chrysanthemum blooms can be pressed and laminated for use as decorative elements in glassware, such as coasters or window panes.
- During festive seasons, the bright and bold colors of chrysanthemums can be utilized in creating natural garlands or other decorations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChrysanthemums are used in Feng Shui for bringing happiness and joy, as well as promoting longevity. They symbolize balance and harmony, making them suitable for areas of the home where you want to encourage a calming and peaceful energy, such as in living rooms or meditation spaces. Place white chrysanthemums to purify and lift the energy, while yellow ones can promote grounding and stability.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and endurance due to their ability to bloom in the autumn when most other flowers have faded.
- Rejuvenation: As these flowers can bloom into the late season, they symbolize the idea of a life being rejuvenated or restored.
- Loyalty: In many cultures, chrysanthemums represent honesty and loyalty, possibly arising from their perennial nature and reliable blooming even as the colder months approach.
- Death: In some European countries, chrysanthemums are symbolic of death and are often used in funerary arrangements or on graves.
- Nobility: In Asian cultures, particularly Japan, the chrysanthemum is considered noble and is the Imperial family's crest and official seal.
- Joy: With their bright and cheery appearance, chrysanthemums can also stand for happiness and joy in some contexts.
WaterMums, as Chrysanthemum 'Fantasy' is commonly known, prefer evenly moist soil, suggesting that they should be watered regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture. However, it is crucial not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Generally, watering with about 1 gallon per week should suffice, but this may vary depending on temperature and humidity levels. During hot, dry periods, the plants may need additional water. Check the top inch of soil, and if it feels dry, it's time to water. Water the plants deeply at the base to ensure the roots get adequate moisture, without soaking the foliage to prevent disease.
LightMums thrive in bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. They flourish best when they're placed in a spot where they can receive ample morning light, which is less harsh than the intense afternoon sun. In regions with very hot summers, providing some afternoon shade can help protect the plants from scorching. As a rule of thumb, more light leads to stronger stems and a more abundant bloom, so aim to give your mums as much light as possible without subjecting them to excessive heat.
TemperatureMums do best in moderate temperatures, preferring a range between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. They can tolerate short periods of colder weather down to about 32°F, but they should be protected from frost to prevent damage. Similarly, high temperatures above 90°F can stress the plants. To ensure the longevity and vibrancy of mums, try keeping them in conditions that avoid the extremes of cold and heat.
PruningPruning mums is essential for promoting bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch back the tips of the stems in spring and early summer to encourage branching. Stop pinching around mid-July as this allows the plants to develop flower buds for the fall. Prune dead or spent flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain the plant's appearance. The best time for a major pruning is after the blooming cycle when plants start to die back, usually in late fall or early winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChrysanthemums require well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 to 7.0. A good mix can be created using equal parts of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Adding compost to the mix can improve soil fertility and structure, benefiting the mums' growth.
RepottingMums, such as the Chrysanthemum 'Fantasy', typically need to be repotted every one to two years. It's best to repot in the spring before the growing season begins to minimize stress on the plant and to accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingMums thrive best in moderate humidity levels. Aim for a humidity level around 40-60% for Chrysanthemum 'Fantasy', which is often the average indoor humidity. Avoid placing them in overly dry or humid environments for optimal health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Chrysanthemum 'Fantasy' in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Chrysanthemum 'Fantasy' in a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Chrysanthemum, also known as 'mum', begins with seed germination, where the seeds sprout in moist and well-drained soil under the right temperature conditions. As the seedling grows, it develops into a vegetative stage, with leaves expanding to absorb sunlight for photosynthesis, at which point the plant can be propagated via cuttings. The mum enters a phase of vegetative growth, producing stems and leaves in preparation for flowering, often requiring pinching to encourage bushiness. As the plant matures, it enters the budding stage, when flower buds form and necessitate proper light exposure and possibly reduced temperatures to promote full blooming. The flowering stage showcases the mum's vibrant and varied-colored blooms, which attract pollinators and can last for several weeks in the fall. After blooming, the plant enters a period of dormancy over the winter, where it may die back at the surface but survive underground, ready to regenerate in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the Chrysanthemum 'Fantasy', commonly known as mums, is through division. This is ideally done in the spring when new growth appears and the risk of frost has passed. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a healthy supply of roots. These sections can then be replanted in well-draining soil at the same depth they were originally growing. Water the newly divided plants thoroughly to establish them in their new location. This method not only helps to propagate your mums but also rejuvenates older plants that may have become too large or crowded.
