Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Gala' (PBR) (22)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Gala', commonly known as a mum or chrysanthemum, features a vibrant explosion of beautiful blooms that are sure to draw attention. The flowers have multiple layers of petals that open expansively in a display of color. The petals are tightly packed, which gives the blooms a full, lush appearance. The color of 'Gala' mums can vary, often possessing warm and inviting shades that can range from deep reds to bright yellows, rich pinks, stark whites, or even multicolored varieties that exhibit several hues blending from the center of the bloom out towards the tips of the petals. Each flower is carried on sturdy stems that sprout from a bushy clump of bright green foliage. The leaves are deeply lobed, giving them a textured quality with an almost fern-like appearance. These rich green leaves create a striking contrast against the colorful proliferation of flowers that float above them during the blooming season. When in full flower, Chrysanthemum 'Gala' is a dramatic feature in any setting, be it a garden bed, container planting, or as a cut flower in a bouquet, where its vivid blooms add a celebratory feel to any arrangement. This variety is known for its charming appearance and ability to bring a splash of cheer wherever it is grown or displayed.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Garden Mum, Florist's Chrysanthemum, Hardy Chrysanthemum, Mums.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Gala' (PBR) (22).
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, are not generally considered highly toxic to humans, but they can cause contact dermatitis in some individuals sensitive to the plant's sap. If ingested, it can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Additionally, handling or inhaling chrysanthemum parts may trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals, which can manifest as skin rashes, redness, itching, or sneezing. It is advisable to exercise caution and keep chrysanthemums out of reach of children, who may accidentally ingest plant parts.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. The plant contains compounds called pyrethrins, which can cause symptoms of poisoning in animals if ingested. These symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In more severe cases, ingestion of chrysanthemums can lead to neurological symptoms such as tremors and seizures. It is essential to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the plant and to seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect your pet has been poisoned by a chrysanthemum.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant colors and intricate flower forms to gardens and landscapes.
- Long Blooming: Offers a prolonged flowering period, providing visual interest over a long season.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Low Maintenance: Generally requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for busy gardeners.
- Cold Tolerance: Capable of withstanding cooler temperatures, which can extend the flowering season in certain climates.
- Attracts Pollinators: Draws in beneficial insects like butterflies and bees, supporting local ecosystems.
- Easy to Propagate: Can be easily propagated through cuttings, allowing gardeners to create new plants economically.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: Chrysanthemums, with their vibrant blossoms, are often used in photography to add a pop of color and natural beauty to portrait and still life compositions.
- Natural Dye: The petals of chrysanthemums can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, yielding shades of yellow, gold, or green depending on the mordant used.
- Fish Aquariums: Dried chrysanthemum flowers can be used in fish aquariums as a natural decoration that's safe for the aquatic environment.
- Art Supplies: Crushed petals of chrysanthemums can be mixed into paints to add texture and unique pigmentation to artworks.
- Plant Companionship: Chrysanthemums can be planted among vegetables like tomatoes as companion plants to improve growth and deter pests.
- Culinary Garnishes: Edible varieties of chrysanthemum petals can be used as colorful, decorative garnishes for salads and desserts.
- Craft Material: Dried chrysanthemum flowers are often used in homemade soaps, candles, potpourri, and decorative wreaths.
- Floral Water: Petals can be steeped in water to create a scented floral water for use in homemade beauty treatments or as a linen spray.
- Bookmark Crafting: Pressed chrysanthemum flowers make unique and attractive bookmarks when laminated or encased in clear contact paper.
- Literary Symbol: Chrysanthemums are used as a symbol in poetry and literature, representing themes like autumn, longevity, or the transient nature of life.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui practice to bring happiness and laughter to the home, as it is associated with joy and ease. Place the Chrysanthemum in the living room or other areas where family members gather to uplift the energy and create a more optimistic atmosphere.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and everlasting life due to their hardiness and ability to bloom well into the autumn when most other flowers have faded.
- Rebirth and Renewal: In some cultures, chrysanthemums symbolize new life and rebirth given their late blooming and their association with the fall season, which is a time of transformation.
- Joy and Optimism: The bright and cheerful appearance of the chrysanthemum makes it a symbol of happiness and a positive outlook, reflecting its role in celebrations and festive occasions.
- Fidelity and Devotion: In some traditions, giving a chrysanthemum is a way to show loyalty and committed love, as the flower is seen to represent steadfastness.
- Beauty and Perfection: The intricate petals of the chrysanthemum are thought to symbolize the idea of perfection and beauty in life, often admired in floral displays for their striking appearance.
WaterMums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Gala', should be watered regularly, making sure the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. During active growth periods in spring and summer, water them deeply once a week with about one gallon of water per plant, depending on the size of the plant and environmental conditions. Reduce watering in the fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing. It’s important to water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease.
LightMums require a location with full sun to grow and flourish. They thrive best when they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid placing them in deep shade, as this can result in weak growth and fewer blooms. The ideal spot for Chrysanthemum 'Gala' mums is an area that is bright and receives direct sunlight for the majority of the day.
TemperatureMums, such as the Chrysanthemum 'Gala', prefer moderate temperatures and can generally tolerate temperatures between 32°F and 90°F. Frost can damage the plant, so it's crucial to protect it if the temperature drops below freezing. The ideal growing temperature for mums is between 60°F and 75°F.
PruningMums, such as the Chrysanthemum 'Gala', should be pruned to encourage bushy growth and to maintain a neat appearance. Pinch back the growing tips when the plants are about 6 inches tall and continue to do so until midsummer. This will help produce a fuller plant with more blooms. The best time for heavy pruning is early spring, just as new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the garden mum, also known as Chrysanthemum 'Gala', is a well-draining potting mix enriched with organic matter such as compost or peat moss. The optimal soil pH range for garden mums is between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingGarden mums should be repotted every one to two years or when they have outgrown their current container. It's best to repot in spring before the growing season begins.
Humidity & MistingGarden mums prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable. Aim for a humidity level around 40-60% for best growth if grown indoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place garden mums in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant garden mums in well-draining soil in full sun.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Gala' (commonly known as mums or chrysanths) begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in the soil, requiring warmth, oxygen, and moisture to sprout. Emerging seedlings develop true leaves and undergo vegetative growth, where they form a bushy structure with characteristic deeply lobed leaves. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, typically triggered by shorter day lengths, resulting in a variety of colored blooms that this cultivar is known for. After pollination, fertilization may occur leading to the development of seeds that are released once the flowers have senesced and dried. If not allowed to set seed, the plant may redirect energy to produce more blooms. When growing conditions become unfavorable, especially in regions with cold winters, the Chrysanthemum 'Gala' plant will die back, but it can regrow from underground roots or survive through cuttings and divisions kept in more suitable environments.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Gala' (PBR) is typically propagated through the division of established plants. This should be done in the early spring as the new growth emerges. To propagate by division, gardeners dig up an existing clump of chrysanthemums and carefully separate the plant into smaller sections, each with a portion of the root system and several shoots. These divisions are then replanted into a well-preparing growing medium, which should be kept moist to ensure the establishment of the new plants. It's important to allow enough space between the new plants for air circulation and growth, as overcrowding can lead to disease issues. Dividing chrysanthemums not only helps propagate new plants but also rejuvenates older clumps that may have become too dense or have started to die out in the center.
