Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Golden Snowdon' (3b)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Golden Snowdon' is a striking plant known for its beautiful, densely-petaled flowers that exhibit a vibrant yellow color. These flowers have a pompon-like appearance due to their spherical shape and the arrangement of the petals, which are numerous and tightly layered. Each flower head is composed of a multitude of small, compact florets that collectively create a cushioned surface, giving them a soft and lush look. The foliage of the 'Golden Snowdon' is deep green and has a glossy texture that nicely contrasts with the bright yellow blooms. The leaves are typically organized alternately along the stems and may have a slightly serrated edge, giving a slightly textured feel to the plant. Blooming in the later months of the year, this variety of chrysanthemum brings cheer to gardens as the days shorten and cooler temperatures prevail. When in full flower, the 'Golden Snowdon' has a rich, golden hue, creating a warm and inviting appearance that draws the eye and adds a splash of color to the autumn landscape. Although size specifications are omitted, it is important to note that this plant is bushy in nature, and when in bloom, it presents a stunning display that can become a focal point in a garden setting. With its bright, globe-like flowers and contrasting dark green foliage, Chrysanthemum 'Golden Snowdon' is a visually enjoyable plant that adds texture, color, and a touch of seasonal beauty wherever it is grown.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Golden Snowdon Chrysanthemum, Snowdon Mum, Snowdon Daisy.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Golden Snowdon' (3b).
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, can be mildly toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains several potentially harmful chemical compounds including pyrethrins, which can cause dermatitis on contact for sensitive individuals. If consumed, parts of the plant may trigger mild symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. In very rare and severe cases, ingestion could lead to more serious symptoms like swelling of the throat, mouth pain, and dermatitis. It's important to exercise caution and keep parts of the plant away from young children who might accidentally ingest them.
To pets
Mums are toxic to pets, including dogs, cats, and horses. The plant contains pyrethrins and other compounds that can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis in pets if ingested. Ingesting large quantities of the plant may lead to more severe symptoms, which could include tremors and seizures. It's recommended to keep this plant out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion and potential poisoning. If you suspect your pet has ingested mums, it is critical to contact a veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2 feet [60 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value - Adds vibrant yellow color and beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Long Blooming Period - Typically has a lengthy flowering season, enhancing garden aesthetics for an extended time.
- Attracts Pollinators - Invites beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Drought Resistance - Once established, can tolerate periods of low water availability.
- Low Maintenance - Generally requires minimal care beyond initial establishment and occasional pruning.
- Versatile - Suitable for borders, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Cold Hardy - Tolerates low temperatures well, suitable for cooler climates within its hardiness zone.
- Deer Resistance - Less appealing to deer, which can help reduce garden damage in deer-prone areas.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: The distinctive appearance of the chrysanthemum has been used as a motif in various art forms such as paintings, fabric patterns, and ceramics, providing inspiration with its lush, layered petals and vibrant color.
- Photography: Chrysanthemums make an excellent subject for photographers, especially in macro photography where the intricate details of the flower's structure can be showcased.
- Crafts: The dried petals of chrysanthemums can be used to create unique potpourris, dried flower arrangements, or pressed flower art pieces for decoration.
- Culinary Garnish: While usually not consumed, the bright petals of 'Golden Snowdon' can be used as a visually appealing, non-toxic garnish for salads and desserts.
- Natural Fabric Dyes: The pigments of the chrysanthemum can be used in the natural dyeing process to imbue fabrics with soft yellows and golds.
- Insect Deterrent: The chrysanthemum can be planted in gardens to help deter certain insects naturally, benefiting nearby plants more susceptible to pest issues.
- Educational Tool: Horticulture and botany educators can use 'Golden Snowdon' as an example to teach about plant cultivation, hybridization, and seasonal blooming cycles.
- Garden Design: With their lush foliage and vivid blooms, they can be used in garden design to create focal points or to provide autumn interest when many other plants have faded.
- Event Decorations: The blooms of the 'Golden Snowdon' make stunning table centerpieces or decorative elements in floral arrangements for special occasions like weddings or parties.
- Cultural Festivities: In some cultures, chrysanthemums are used during festivals to signify happiness and longevity, making them a popular choice for celebratory decorations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChrysanthemums are used in Feng Shui to attract positive energy and promote a sense of well-being and happiness. They can be integrated into areas of the home where you want to introduce uplifting energy, such as the living room or as part of a wealth vase to attract abundance. The 'Golden Snowdon', with its bright, sun-like color, can be particularly effective in the southeast sector connected to wealth and prosperity or the center area for overall balance and health.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums symbolize a long life due to their robust nature and the longevity of their blooms.
- Rebirth: Their perennial nature represents new beginnings and the cycle of life, rebirth, and renewal.
- Nobility: In certain cultures, chrysanthemums are associated with nobility and elegance.
- Endurance: Their ability to flower into the colder months signifies endurance and the power to overcome difficulties.
- Joy: The bright and cheerful appearance of the ‘Golden Snowdon’ variety, specifically, conveys happiness and joy.
- Loyalty: The flower's tendency to return year after year is often linked to the idea of faithfulness and reliability in relationships.
WaterMums, including the 'Golden Snowdon', should be watered deeply, ensuring that the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. They typically need about one inch of water per week, but this can vary depending on temperature and humidity. During hot, dry spells, they may need additional water. It's best to check the top inch of soil before watering; if it's dry, water the plant slowly to allow the water to reach the roots without running off. Aim to provide about one gallon of water per plant each week, adjusting as necessary for weather conditions.
Light'Golden Snowdon' mums thrive in full sun conditions, which means they should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They will perform best in a spot that has morning sun and some protection from intense, late afternoon rays. Adequate light is essential for the plant's growth and flower development.
TemperatureThe 'Golden Snowdon' mum prefers a temperature range between 32°F and 90°F, but it can survive slight dips below freezing and short periods of slightly higher temperatures. The ideal growing conditions are between 60°F and 75°F. Extremes beyond the survival range, especially frost or prolonged heat above 90°F, can be damaging to the plant.
PruningPruning 'Golden Snowdon' mums encourages a bushier growth habit and more abundant blooms. Pinch back the tips of new growth in late spring and early summer to promote branching. Stop pinching in mid-July to allow flower buds to form for fall blooming. Remove spent flowers to keep the plant tidy and potentially encourage further blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 6.7. A mix of equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand will provide the necessary drainage and nutrients for Chrysanthemum 'Golden Snowdon'.
RepottingChrysanthemums should be repotted annually, best done in the spring as new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer average humidity levels around 40-60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in well-lit area, keep soil moist, not wet.
Outdoor
Full sun, shelter from strong winds, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Chrysanthemum 'Golden Snowdon', commonly known as the hardy garden mum, starts with a seed germination stage, typically occurring in spring when the temperature and soil conditions are suitable. After germination, the seedling emerges, developing a root system and foliage through the vegetative growth phase. As the plant matures, it enters the budding stage, typically in late summer to early fall, where flower buds form at the tips of the stems. The blooming stage follows, showcasing the plant's vibrant yellow flowers, and this stage can last several weeks depending on the climate and care provided. After flowering, the plant goes into a dormant stage during the winter months, where growth ceases and the plant conserves energy. In the following spring, if the plant has been adequately mulched and cared for, it will resume growth, completing the cycle with new vegetative growth and eventually leading back to the budding and flowering stages.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Chrysanthemum 'Golden Snowdon', commonly known as Garden Mum, is typically propagated by cuttings. The best time for this is late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate Garden Mums, select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a piece about 4 to 6 inches long. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Then, plant the cutting in a pot filled with moist, well-draining potting mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment and place it in indirect light. Rooting usually occurs in 2 to 3 weeks (approximately 14 to 21 days). Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transferred to individual pots and grown on until they are ready to be planted out.
