Chrysanthemum Firecracker Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker' (PBR) (22)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker' is a striking cultivar known for its vibrant and showy flowers. The plant boasts an array of colorful blooms that can be described as rich and fiery, true to its 'Firecracker' name. The petals are typically a deep, saturated red-orange hue that may have lighter tips, which can sometimes appear as if the flower is ablaze with a burst of flame. These flowers are usually dense and compact, forming a cushion-like shape that adds to their visual appeal. The petals are numerous and may have a daisy-like appearance, which is characteristic of many chrysanthemums. They are arranged in a radial pattern around a central eye, which is often a contrasting color such as yellow or dark brown, providing a focal point amid the fiery petals. The foliage of Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker' also contributes to the plant's overall aesthetic, with leaves that are generally dark green, deeply lobed, and may have a slightly glossy texture. Together, the vivid flowers and the rich green foliage create a show-stopping display that can add a pop of color to any garden or floral arrangement. The plant's appearance is enhanced further by its tendency to bloom profusely, with multiple flower heads often clustering together to form a dense, eye-catching mass of color.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Firecracker Chrysanthemum, Firecracker Mum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker' (PBR) (22)
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker', are not considered highly toxic to humans. However, if ingested, they can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some cases, dermatitis may occur if there is skin contact with the sap. It is advised to use caution and keep plants out of the reach of small children who might accidentally ingest plant parts.
To pets
Chrysanthemums, are toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. If pets ingest parts of the Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker', symptoms can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, dermatitis, and in severe cases, may lead to neurological symptoms such as seizures. Pet owners should take measures to keep these plants out of reach and contact a veterinarian if their pet shows signs of chrysanthemum poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker' has vibrant and colorful flowers that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Extended Blooming Period: It blooms in late summer and continues through fall, providing long-lasting floral displays.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it has good drought tolerance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Easy to Grow: It is relatively easy to care for, making it a good choice for novice gardeners or those with busy schedules.
- Pest Resistance: This variety is known for having some resistance to common pests that afflict other garden plants.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blossoms attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Versatility: It can be used in garden beds, borders, containers, or as cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Seasonal Interest: Its autumn flowering period helps extend the garden's interest into the cooler months.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: Chrysanthemums inspire many artists and photographers with their vibrant colors and the 'Firecracker' variety's bright hues are especially attractive for creative works.
- Food Garnish: Petals of Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker' can be used to adorn salads and desserts, adding a splash of color and a mild spicy flavor.
- Fabric Dye: The bright petals of the Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker' can be used to produce a natural dye for textiles, offering a range of yellow, red, and orange tones.
- Companion Planting: When planted in the garden, they can help repel certain insects and pests, thereby protecting other plants.
- Crafts: Dried Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker' flowers can be used in various crafts, such as making potpourri or decorating picture frames.
- Special Occasions: Often used in celebrations, Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker' could be used for festive decorations due to its bright and celebratory appearance.
- Teaching Tool: These flowers can be used in schools or educational workshops to teach about plant biology and horticulture.
- Flower Arranging: The striking blooms of Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker' make them a popular choice for flower arranging, adding a pop of color to any bouquet.
- Rituals: In some cultures, chrysanthemums are used in ceremonies or rituals as offerings or to decorate altars and sacred spaces.
- Photography: The Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker' is a photogenic plant that can be used as a striking subject for photographic projects, especially macro photography.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is associated with happiness and well-being in Feng Shui. As a 'Firecracker' variety, its vibrant colors can be used to introduce fiery energy, promoting high levels of positive energy and dispelling negativity. Place it in living areas to uplift the chi and create a sense of joy and vitality.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums have been associated with long life and well-being in many cultures, especially in Asia. In China, they are a symbol of autumn and the flower is thought to bring longevity and immortality.
- Rebirth and Renewal: With their bright and fiery appearance, 'Firecracker' Chrysanthemums symbolize the idea of rebirth and renewal, drawing parallels to the burst of energy and life seen in fireworks.
- Joy and Happiness: Chrysanthemums, in general, are seen as a symbol of joy and happiness due to their vibrant colors and friendly appearance. The 'Firecracker' variety, with its vivid and cheerful hues, doubles down on this symbolism.
- Love and Affection: In some cultures, giving Chrysanthemums to someone is a way of showing affection and love. The 'Firecracker' variety, with its dynamic reds and oranges, might be particularly suited to express passion and deep emotion.
- Loyalty and Devotion: Chrysanthemums also signify loyalty and devotion, representing the idea of steadfastness through its robust nature and perennial growth habit, traits shared by the 'Firecracker' variety.
WaterMums should be watered regularly to maintain consistently moist soil, but be careful not to overwater as they do not like to sit in waterlogged conditions. It's best to water them deeply once a week with about one gallon per plant, ensuring that the water penetrates the soil to reach the roots rather than just wetting the surface. During hot, dry periods, they may need water more frequently. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering again. It's vital to avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases, so water at the base of the plant.
LightMums thrive in full sunlight, where they can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. A spot that enjoys morning sunlight and some afternoon shade is ideal, especially in regions where the midday sun is very intense. Avoid placing them in deep shade or excessively bright, scorching conditions, as both can hinder their growth and flowering potential.
TemperatureMums prefer a moderate temperature range and perform best when daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F. They can tolerate a minimum nighttime temperature of around 32°F, but frost can damage them, and they should not be exposed to prolonged periods below freezing. Mums can survive up to a maximum temperature around 90°F but may require additional care and watering to ensure they remain healthy in these conditions.
PruningPruning mums is important for promoting bushier growth and more abundant blooms. Pinch back the tips of the stems in late spring when the plants are about 6 inches tall, and repeat the process every 2 to 3 weeks until mid-July. This helps to create a more compact, fuller plant. The best time to prune is just as the new growth begins to develop. Regular deadheading of spent flowers will also encourage continued blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChrysanthemums (often called mums) require well-draining soil with good fertility. A mix of equal parts peat, perlite, and garden loam works well. Maintain soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years. Best repotting occurs in the spring before the onset of abundant growth.
Humidity & MistingMums thrive in moderate humidity levels, ideally between 40% to 60%. They can tolerate some variation outside this range.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place mums in bright, indirect light and away from drafts.
Outdoor
Plant mums in a sunny location with some afternoon shade.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker', commonly known as Hardy Garden Mum, begins its life cycle as a seed or cutting typically propagated in early spring under controlled temperatures. As it germinates, it advances to the seedling stage, developing a set of true leaves after the initial sprouts. This Hardy Garden Mum then goes through a vegetative growth phase, experiencing rapid foliage expansion and increased root development throughout the growing season. As the days shorten and cooler temperatures set in towards late summer or early fall, the plant enters the budding phase and ultimately blooms, presenting vibrant, daisy-like flowers that attract pollinators. After flowering, the Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker' sets seeds if pollination has occurred, completing the reproductive cycle. As the cold winter approaches, this perennial plant often dies back to the ground, relying on its root system to survive the winter and regenerate the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Firecracker', commonly known as mums, is most commonly propagated through division. This method is typically performed in the spring after the danger of frost has passed but before new growth begins in earnest. To propagate by division, the gardener should carefully dig up an established mum clump and gently separate it into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a portion of the root system and several shoots. These divisions should be replanted at the same depth they were growing at previously, spaced approximately 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth and air circulation. It's essential to water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to encourage root establishment.
