Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum Gigi Dark Pink = 'Cifz0021' (PBR)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum Gigi Dark Pink, known commonly as the mum or chrysanthemum, features a striking floral display. The blossoms are a rich, dark pink hue, providing a vibrant splash of color to any garden space or arrangement. The flowers themselves are composed of numerous petals that radiate outwards from the center, creating a full and lush appearance. These petals may exhibit a gradation of color intensity, often more saturated near the center and gently lightening towards the edges. The texture of the petals is typically soft and somewhat layered due to their plentiful quantity and arrangement. The foliage of the mum is typically a deep green, forming a dense and bushy backdrop to the vivacious pink blooms. The leaves are usually intricately lobed or divided, adding to the visual interest of the plant. Overall, the Chrysanthemum Gigi Dark Pink presents a delightful and eye-catching appearance with its lush blooms and cheerful coloration.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Gigi Dark Pink Chrysanthemum, Dark Pink Gigi.
Common names
Chrysanthemum Gigi Dark Pink = 'Cifz0021' (PBR).
- Toxicity
To humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are not highly toxic to humans, but they can cause skin irritation in some individuals due to the presence of sesquiterpene lactones in their leaves and flowers. If ingested, they may potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In very rare cases, if a person is particularly sensitive or allergic, ingestion could lead to more serious reactions. It is generally advisable to avoid consuming any part of ornamental plants not intended for human consumption.
To pets
Chrysanthemums (mums) are toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. If a pet ingests part of a chrysanthemum plant, the most common symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion could lead to more serious conditions such as depression, and in very rare instances, it may result in seizures. It is important to keep chrysanthemums out of reach of pets and to seek veterinary attention if you suspect that your pet has ingested any part of the plant.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
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
- Aesthetic Appeal: The vibrant dark pink blossoms add color and beauty to any garden or floral arrangement.
- Long Blooming Season: It typically has a long flowering period, providing enjoyment for an extended time throughout the growing season.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity and aiding in the pollination of nearby plants.
- Low Maintenance: Known for being hardy and requiring minimal care, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping or regions with water restrictions.
- Adaptability: It can thrive in a range of environmental conditions, from full sun to partial shade.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for use in borders, pots, and as cut flowers in floral arrangements.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Chrysanthemum petals can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics and yarns, imparting a range of colors from yellows to greens depending on the mordant used.
- The flowers can be incorporated into potpourri mixtures, providing a decorative element as well as a subtle, floral fragrance to a room.
- Culinary artists may use Chrysanthemum petals as edible decorations on cakes and desserts, adding a splash of color and a touch of elegance.
- In art, dried flowers can be used for collage or mixed media projects, lending texture and dimension to the artwork.
- Photographers may use these brightly colored flowers as a natural backdrop or for setting up creative still life compositions.
- They can serve as biological indicators for greenhouse growers by helping to reveal the presence of pests through changes in the plant's health.
- Leaf and flower shapes from Chrysanthemums can be used in children's crafts for stencil-making, painting, or tracing activities.
- Chrysanthemum petals can be pressed and used in clear resin jewelry, creating unique accessories with real flowers embedded inside.
- The stems, when dried and bundled, can be used for kindling in outdoor fire pits or indoor fireplaces, where permitted and safe.
- They can be floated in bowls of water as part of a table centerpiece or decor during festive events for an added touch of natural beauty.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Chrysanthemum is associated with happiness and well-being in Feng Shui, so the Chrysanthemum Gigi Dark Pink could be used to introduce positive energy, particularly in areas like the living room to promote family harmony and joy.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and immortality, stemming from their origins in East Asia where they have been grown for over 1500 years.
- Rejuvenation: Their name comes from the Greek words "chrysos," meaning gold, and "anthemon," meaning flower, which together symbolize a renewal of life, as gold is often seen as an eternally pure and valuable element.
- Love and affection: In some cultures, the chrysanthemum is given as a gift to express feelings of love and deep affection.
- Friendship: The chrysanthemum is also seen as a symbol of support and encouragement, often given to friends to show solidarity or as a way to honor lasting friendships.
- Well-being: Due to its medicinal properties in traditional Asian medicine, the chrysanthemum is often used to symbolize health and well-being.
- Grieving and honor: In several European countries, chrysanthemums are associated with death and are often used to honor the lives of the departed and to express sympathy during mourning.
- Nobility: In Japanese culture, the chrysanthemum, or "kiku," is a noble flower that represents the emperor and the imperial family, as part of the official seal and crest of Japan.
- Happiness and optimism: Its bright and vibrant blooms convey positivity and joy, making it a symbol of happiness and optimism in various cultures.
- Water
The Chrysanthemum, commonly known as a mum, should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Water the plant deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, providing about 1 gallon of water per week, depending on weather conditions. In hot, dry weather, more frequent watering may be necessary, possibly every other day, but reduce watering during cooler, rainy periods. It is important to avoid overhead watering to prevent disease, instead water at the base of the plant.
- Light
Mums thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. The optimal spot for a Chrysanthemum Gigi Dark Pink would be in a location where it can receive morning sun and some partial shade during the intense afternoon heat, ensuring vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
- Temperature
Chrysanthemums prefer moderate temperatures and can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9. They can survive minimum temperatures of around 20°F but the ideal temperature range for active growth is between 60°F and 75°F. Extreme heat can be detrimental, so provide some shade if temperatures consistently soar above 90°F.
- Pruning
Prune mums in early spring, removing dead stems from the previous year, to promote healthy growth and profuse flowering. Pinch back the tips of new growth in late spring to early summer to encourage bushy growth and more blooms. The best time for major pruning is after the danger of hard frost has passed.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
The best soil mix for a garden mum, such as the Chrysanthemum 'Gigi Dark Pink', should be well-draining and fertile. A mix of equal parts garden soil, peat, and perlite or sand is ideal. The pH for garden mums should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
- Repotting
Garden mums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Gigi Dark Pink', should be repotted every one to two years. Repotting is best done in the spring before the new growth starts.
- Humidity & Misting
Garden mums like the Chrysanthemum 'Gigi Dark Pink' prefer moderate humidity levels around 40-60%. Avoid excessively high humidity to prevent disease.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright indirect light, avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Full sun, protect from frost, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
- Life cycle
The Chrysanthemum Gigi Dark Pink, commonly known as Hardystar Dark Pink Hardy Garden Mum, begins its life cycle from a seed or cutting, with the latter being more common for controlled cultivation. Once the cutting takes root, the vegetative stage initiates, where the plant focuses on leaf growth. During this stage, it is important to provide ample sunlight, water, and fertilizer to ensure healthy foliage development. As cooler temperatures of late summer to fall set in, the Hardystar Dark Pink enters the budding stage, with flower buds forming and eventually blossoming into characteristic dark pink flowers. After flowering, if not deadheaded, the plant will set seeds, completing its reproductive cycle. In the final stage, the Chrysanthemum enters dormancy over winter, with the above-ground portions dying back and the plant relying on its root system to survive until the next growing season.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Chrysanthemum Gigi Dark Pink 'Cifz0021' commonly referred to as Mum, is typically propagated by cuttings. The best time to propagate mums is during the late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing. Gardeners take tip cuttings of about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) in length from a healthy, vigorous mum plant. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to enhance root development. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring the remaining leaves are above the soil surface. The soil must be kept consistently moist, and the cutting should be kept in indirect light until roots have established, which generally takes 2 to 3 weeks. After rooting, the young plants can be transferred to a more permanent location either in the ground or in a container.