Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Goodlife Sombrero' (29a)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Goodlife Sombrero', commonly known as the mum, is a striking flowering plant that is often admired for its vibrant and colorful appearance. This particular variety showcases a rich and warm palette, reminiscent of the festive shades of a sombrero. The blossoms present in bold hues that may vary from deep oranges to reds, often with a gradient or multidimensional effect that enhances their texture and depth. The flowers of the mum are typically characterized by a dense arrangement of petals, creating a full and lush display. Each individual bloom is composed of numerous small petals that radiate outwards from the center, giving them a pompom-like or daisy-like appearance, depending on the specific type of flower structure of the variety. These petals can be either tight and overlapping or slightly more relaxed and spreading, adding to the overall plush look of the flowers. Amidst the profusion of petals, the center of the mum's flower can sometimes be seen as a contrasting button-like eye, which may be of a different color and adds an additional point of interest to the individual blooms. The foliage of the mum 'Goodlife Sombrero' is typically deep green, providing a lush backdrop for the vivid floral display. The leaves are generally shaped with a jagged or toothed edge, which further complements the rich texture of the overall plant. Mums like this variety are appreciated not only for their striking beauty but also for their role in autumnal displays, as they are often associated with fall festivities and decor. Their appearance is a quintessential symbol of the season, bringing with them an essence of cozy warmth and festivity.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Garden Mum, Hardy Chrysanthemum, Florist's Chrysanthemum.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Goodlife Sombrero'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Chrysanthemum is generally considered to have low toxicity to humans. However, it may cause dermatitis or skin irritation in some individuals upon contact. If ingested, it can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats. If ingested, the plant can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious conditions like depression and loss of coordination. Pet owners should seek veterinary assistance if they suspect their pet has ingested any part of a chrysanthemum 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- Aesthetic Appeal: The Chrysanthemum, commonly known as 'mum', features bright and colorful blooms that enhance the visual interest of garden spaces and landscapes.
- Variety of Colors: 'Mums' come in a wide range of colors, which allows for versatile design and planting options to match different garden themes.
- Seasonal Interest: They typically bloom in the fall, providing color and vibrancy when many other plants are starting to decline.
- Easy to Grow: These plants are relatively low maintenance, which makes them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Durability: 'Mums' are known for their hardiness and can often withstand cooler temperatures that would damage other less resilient plants.
- Pollinator Friendly: They attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollinating other plants in the garden.
- Adaptability: Chrysanthemums can be grown in containers, making them a good choice for those with limited space or for adding autumnal color to patios and balconies.
- Long Bloom Period: The bloom period of 'mums' can last several weeks, providing long-lasting color and interest in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The petals of chrysanthemums are edible and can be used to add a colorful garnish to salads, desserts, and drinks.
- Dried chrysanthemum flowers can be incorporated into potpourri blends for a delicate, floral fragrance.
- Chrysanthemum flowers can be used to make a natural dye for fabrics, yielding colors from yellow to golden brown depending on the mordant used.
- The blossoms can be used in crafting, such as making bookmarks or paper by pressing the flowers into handmade paper for a beautiful effect.
- As a natural insect repellent, chrysanthemum flowers can be planted in gardens to deter pests without the use of chemical insecticides.
- Chrysanthemum flowers can be used in the practice of flower pounding, a technique to transfer flower pigments directly onto fabric or paper.
- The flowers can be floated in bowls of water as a simple and elegant decorative feature for events or in the home.
- Chrysanthemum blooms can be used in creating natural floral waters or perfumes through distillation or infusion processes.
- These flowers are sometimes used in floral photography, taking advantage of their vibrant colors and diverse forms to create stunning compositions.
- Chrysanthemum petals can be used to fill sachets that provide a mild and pleasant scent for drawers and closets.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui practice for promoting happiness and a sense of ease in the home; they can be placed in the living area or near the entryway to welcome positive energy.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and well-being in many cultures, especially in Asia.
- Rebirth and renewal: Their blooming in the fall is a symbol of rejuvenation and the transition of seasons, suggesting new beginnings.
- Happiness and joy: The bright and varied colors of chrysanthemums are believed to bring happiness and laughter to the home, hence their common presence in gardens and home decor.
- Loyalty and devotion: The chrysanthemum's long-lasting nature represents fidelity and steadfastness in relationships.
- Friendship: Giving a chrysanthemum to a friend conveys a message of support, well-wishing, and friendly affection.
WaterMums, including the 'Goodlife Sombrero' variety, prefer evenly moist soil and should not be left dry for prolonged periods. It is best to water them thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which can vary but typically happens once or twice a week, depending on the climate and soil drainage. Use room temperature water, and apply it directly to the soil rather than overhead to avoid wetting the foliage, as this can lead to disease. An average-sized mum in a 10-inch pot may require roughly 1 quart of water per watering session, with adjustments made for larger or smaller plants.
LightMums like the 'Goodlife Sombrero' thrive in full sun to partial shade conditions. They should be placed in a location where they receive at least 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, which encourages strong growth and prolific flowering. A spot that offers morning sunlight and some afternoon shade in hotter regions helps protect the plant from intense heat while still providing sufficient light for blooming.
TemperatureMums, such as 'Goodlife Sombrero', prefer temperature ranges between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and can tolerate nighttime temperatures down to 55 degrees. They can survive short periods outside of this range but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 32 degrees can cause damage, while highs consistently above 80 degrees may stress the plant. For optimal growth and flowering, maintaining the mentioned temperature range is ideal.
PruningPruning 'Goodlife Sombrero' mums is essential for maintaining a compact shape and encouraging bushier growth with more blooms. Pinch or cut back the tips of the shoots when they are about 4-6 inches tall, repeating every 2 to 3 weeks until mid-summer (around early July). Pruning after this time can interfere with bud formation. The best time for a major pruning is after the flowering season ends, typically in late fall, to prepare the plant for winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, thrive best in well-draining, fertile loam with a pH range of 6.5 to 6.7. A mixture consisting of one-third peat moss, one-third perlite, and one-third organic compost would provide a rich, well-aerated foundation. Ensure good drainage in the pot to prevent waterlogging which can lead to root rot.
RepottingMums should typically be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. It is best to repot mums in the spring after the danger of frost has passed, but before they begin their active growing and flowering phase.
Humidity & MistingMums require moderate humidity levels to thrive. Aim for a relative humidity range of around 40-60%. High humidity can promote fungal diseases, while air that is too dry can stress the plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place mums in bright, indirect light with good air circulation indoors.
Outdoor
Ensure full sun to part shade and shield from harsh elements outdoor.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Goodlife Sombrero', commonly known as mums, begin their life cycle as seeds, which when sown in early spring, will germinate given the proper conditions of warmth and moisture. The seedlings will then develop into juvenile plants, forming roots and shoots that emerge above the soil. As they mature into adult plants, they form a clump of vigorous foliage and, by late summer or early fall, start to produce a profusion of colorful flowers that gardeners highly value. After blooming, the plant enters a period of senescence where flowers fade; gardeners often deadhead spent blooms to encourage further flowering and maintain plant vigor. With the arrival of winter, the above-ground parts of the plant may die back, especially in colder climates, while the root system enters a period of dormancy. When warmer weather returns, the plant will regrow from its root system, completing the cycle and preparing for another season of growth and flowering.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Chrysanthemum 'Goodlife Sombrero', commonly known as the mum, is often propagated through division, a popular and efficient method for this perennial plant. This process should ideally be carried out in the springtime after any threat of frost has passed. To propagate by division, a mature mum plant should be carefully lifted from the ground, ensuring to keep a good amount of the root system intact. The root ball is then gently separated into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. These sections can be replanted at the same depth they were growing at originally, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45.72 centimeters) apart to allow for growth and air circulation. After replanting, the soil should be firmed around the base and the plants watered well to encourage rooting. This propagation method allows gardeners to quickly expand their mums collection and maintain the characteristics of the 'Goodlife Sombrero' variety.
