Garden Mum Chrysanthemum 'Golden Cassandra' (5b)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Golden Cassandra' is a vibrant flowering plant known for its showy blooms that adorn it throughout its flowering season. The plant bears a profusion of flowers that can be described as having a lush, golden hue. Each flower is composed of a multitude of petals that are arranged in a dense, radial fashion emanating from the center of the bloom. These petals can give the flowers a pompom-like appearance, adding to the visual texture of the plant. The foliage of Golden Cassandra is deep green, providing a striking contrast to the golden-yellow flowers. The leaves themselves are typically lobed with edges that can be smooth or slightly serrated, depending on the variety. The overall shape of the leaves can vary but often presents a somewhat oval shape with a pointed tip. The surface of the leaves can have a matte finish and may be slightly rough to the touch. The plant has a bushy habit, forming a compact mound that serves as a lush backdrop to the bright flowers that stand out prominently against the greenery. This characteristic arrangement makes Golden Cassandra a favored choice for garden displays, border plantings, and as a colorful addition to container gardens. The cheerful and eye-catching look of the Chrysanthemum 'Golden Cassandra' adds warmth and charm to any setting where it is planted, symbolizing joy and optimism with its radiant blooms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Golden Cassandra Chrysanthemum, Golden Cassandra Mum, Golden Cassandra Hardy Mum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Golden Cassandra'
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums are generally considered to have low toxicity to humans. However, they can cause dermatitis in some individuals who have sensitive skin or are allergic to the plant. Ingesting parts of the chrysanthemum may lead to gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a loss of appetite. In rare cases, more severe reactions could occur in particularly sensitive individuals.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. If ingested, they can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, incoordination, and dermatitis. The toxic compounds in chrysanthemums are pyrethrins, which can lead to more severe symptoms such as tremors, seizures, and hypersalivation if consumed in large quantities. It is important to keep chrysanthemums out of reach of pets and to consult a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
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- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: 'Golden Cassandra' adds a vibrant yellow hue to the garden, offering a bright, cheerful look throughout its blooming season.
- Attracts Pollinators: This chrysanthemum variety is known to attract bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollination and the health of the entire garden ecosystem.
- Extended Blooming Season: Capable of blooming late into the fall, 'Golden Cassandra' provides color and interest in the garden when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, this plant is relatively drought-tolerant, making it a good choice for gardens in drier climates or for gardeners who prefer low-water plants.
- Ease of Care: Chrysanthemum 'Golden Cassandra' is known for being easy to grow and maintain, making it a good option for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Versatility in the Landscape: This plant can be used in a variety of ways in the garden, including in borders, as part of a flowerbed, or in containers.
- Seasonal Festivity: The golden blooms of 'Golden Cassandra' are often associated with autumn, making them a popular choice for seasonal displays and arrangements.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural dye: The flowers of the chrysanthemum can be used to produce a natural yellow or green dye for fabrics or in artistic creations.
- Companion planting: Chrysanthemums produce a natural insecticide called pyrethrin, making them great companion plants in the garden to deter pests from other plants.
- Biological pest control: Ground up flowers or foliage can be used to create a natural insect repellent to protect other plants without harmful chemicals.
- Decorative art: Dried chrysanthemum flowers can be used in creating floral arrangements, potpourri, or artistic crafts.
- Literary inspiration: The beauty and diversity of chrysanthemums are often celebrated in poetry and literature, representing a wide array of emotions and themes.
- Photography: Chrysanthemums, with their vibrant colors and lush blossoms, are popular subjects for photographers and visual artists.
- Floral waters and infusions: Chrysanthemum petals can be steeped in water to create fragrant floral waters for use in beautifying spaces or in cosmetics.
- Teaching tool: These plants can be used in educational settings for lessons on botany, plant life cycles, and gardening.
- Ice cubes: Petals of chrysanthemum can be frozen into ice cubes to add an elegant and colorful touch to drinks and cocktails.
- Erosion control: When planted in groups, chrysanthemums can help stabilize soil and control erosion thanks to their dense growth habit.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is often used in Feng Shui to attract positive energy and promote happiness and longevity. Placing these flowers in the living room or as a centerpiece can uplift the energy of the space due to their bright and cheerful appearance.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: The chrysanthemum, or 'mum' for short, is often associated with long life and immortality due to its robust nature and the ability to bloom into the late autumn.
- Rebirth and Renewal: As the 'mum' blooms in fall, a time when many other plants are dying off, it symbolizes the idea of rebirth and the renewal of life.
- Joy and Happiness: In general, the 'mum' signifies joy and happiness in various cultures, with its bright golden color often enhancing this positive association.
- Loyalty and Devotion: Throughout history, the 'mum' has been a symbol of loyalty and devoted love, partly because of its lasting nature and the tight cluster of its petals.
- Cleansing and Purity: Some cultures believe that the 'mum' has the power to cleanse and offer protection, which is why it's often included in medicinal teas and used in certain ceremonies to imply purity.
WaterMums, including the 'Golden Cassandra', prefer evenly moist soil, so it's best to water them deeply and thoroughly. In general, watering once a week with about 1 inch of water should suffice, but this can vary based on climate and soil conditions. Make sure to soak the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches to encourage deep root growth. During hot, dry periods, additional watering may be necessary. Always check the top inch of soil before watering; if it feels dry, it's time to water again. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
LightMums, such as 'Golden Cassandra', thrive in full sunlight. The ideal spot for these plants is one where they can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, in regions with very hot summers, providing some afternoon shade can help protect the plants from excessive heat stress. Ensure mums are not shaded by larger plants or structures, as this can affect their blooming.
TemperatureMums like 'Golden Cassandra' do best in temperate conditions and can generally handle temperatures from 32°F to 85°F. However, they thrive in cooler temperatures of around 70°F during the day and between 55°F to 60°F at night. These plants can tolerate some frost but should be protected from hard freezes.
Pruning'Golden Cassandra' mums should be pruned to encourage a bushier growth and more blooms. Prune or pinch back the tips of the stems in the spring once they reach 6 inches in height and continue to do so until about mid-July. After flowering, mums can be cut back to 1-2 inches above the ground to prepare them for winter. The best time for pruning is in the spring and then periodically until the summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil for chrysanthemums, including 'Golden Cassandra', is a well-draining mix with organic matter, like compost or peat moss. A slightly acidic to neutral pH, between 6.0 and 7.0, is ideal for chrysanthemums.
RepottingChrysanthemums should generally be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and address root crowding. Annual repotting may encourage more vigorous growth.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemums prefer moderate humidity levels around 40-60%. They do not need exceptionally high humidity to thrive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, away from drafts, and water regularly.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA.
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Golden Cassandra', commonly known as hardy garden mum, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in fertile, well-draining soil, usually in early spring. Seedlings emerge and develop into vigorous plants with a dense, bushy habit, producing deeply lobed leaves. As the plant matures through the growing season, it forms flower buds by late summer, which then bloom into vibrant golden-yellow flowers in early fall, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Following their pollination period, these flowers produce seeds, which can be dispersed by wind or wildlife to start the cycle anew. Once the blooming period concludes with the onset of winter, the above-ground portion of the plant dies back, while the roots may enter a period of dormancy in colder climates within its hardiness zones. With spring's return, the hardy garden mum can regrow from its root system, or gardeners can propagate new plants from cuttings or divisions to rejuvenate their displays.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Propogation: The most popular method for propagating the Chrysanthemum 'Golden Cassandra', commonly known as mums, is through division. The best time to divide mums is in the spring, just as new growth begins, which typically gives the plants enough time to establish before the onset of cold weather. To propagate by division, gently dig up an established mum plant, ensuring a generous amount of root and soil is included. The clump can then be carefully separated into smaller sections, each with plenty of roots and shoots. These sections should be replanted immediately at the same depth they were originally growing, spaced about 18 to 24 inches apart (45 to 60 centimeters), and watered in well. This method rejuvenates mature plants and increases your stock of mums efficiently.
