Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Imp' (21e)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Imp' is a charming cultivar known for its vibrant and decorative flowers. Bearing a classic daisy-like shape, the blooms feature a prominent center, often a rich, darker hue, surrounded by an array of radiating petals. These petals can span a range of colors, commonly seen in vivacious shades which might include fiery reds, sunny yellows, or even deep purples. The texture of the petals tends to be soft and yet somewhat sturdy, giving them a lush, full appearance that is highly sought-after in ornamental plants. The leaves of the Chrysanthemum 'Imp' are equally notable, with a deep green color that offers a striking contrast to the bright flowers. They are typically lush and may have a slightly serrated edge, adding texture and depth to the overall foliage. These leaves are usually dense and can have a glossy finish, contributing to the visual appeal of the plant. Overall, Chrysanthemum 'Imp' exhibits a balanced and bushy growth habit, creating a mound of color when in full bloom. It is well-loved for its showy presence in gardens and as a cut flower, radiating cheerful vibes wherever it is placed. The plant's attractive appearance, featuring that classic combination of showy blossoms atop hearty foliage, makes it a popular choice for gardeners seeking to add a splash of lasting color to their landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mums, Chrysanths
Common names
Chrysanthemum x morifolium, Dendranthema x grandiflorum.
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are not highly toxic to humans, but they can cause mild irritation if ingested. Some people may experience dermatitis from handling the plant or allergic reactions when exposed to its pollen. If parts of the plant are ingested, it may result in gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. More severe reactions are uncommon but may occur in individuals with significant sensitivities or allergies.
To pets
Chrysanthemums, known as mums, are toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Symptoms of chrysanthemum poisoning in pets can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, and dermatitis. Pyrethrins and sesquiterpene lactones, the compounds found in mums, can also lead to more severe reactions such as depression, hypothermia, and in extreme cases, possibly seizures. It is advisable to keep pets away from these plants and seek veterinary assistance if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Spread
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant color to gardens and landscapes with its beautiful flowers.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, beds, and can be used in container gardening.
- Attracts Pollinators: Brings beneficial insects like bees and butterflies to the garden, promoting pollination.
- Seasonal Interest: Typically blooms in late summer to fall, providing color when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Easy to Grow: Generally low maintenance and easy to cultivate, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Durability: Often resistant to common pests and diseases, ensuring a more robust garden presence.
- Long Blooming Period: Offers a lengthy display of blooms that can last until the first frost with proper care.
- Cut Flowers: Makes excellent cut flowers for arrangements due to their longevity and variety of colors.
- Companion Planting: Can be used effectively in companion planting to enhance the growth of other plants.
- Cultural Significance: Has been cultivated for centuries, with deep cultural meanings and uses in various festivals and traditions.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Chrysanthemums, such as the 'Imp', are sometimes used as natural insect repellents in gardens to deter pests like aphids and spider mites.
- The flowers can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, giving them a range of yellow and golden hues.
- Fishermen in some regions use chrysanthemums as bait for certain types of fish that are attracted to the vibrant colors.
- Petals of the Chrysanthemum 'Imp' can be used for decorative purposes in crafts, such as in potpourri or pressed flower arrangements.
- The plant can serve as a companion plant to certain vegetables, such as tomatoes, helping to protect them from harmful insects.
- Chrysanthemums can be floated in bowls of water to create simple, yet elegant, centerpieces for events or home decor.
- The stems and leaves, when dried, can serve as filler for sachets to provide a subtle scent to drawers and closets.
- Brewed chrysanthemum petals can be added to bathwater for a natural floral fragrance and potential skin-softening benefits.
- Chrysanthemum 'Imp' can be used in landscaping as a natural seasonal indicator, as it blooms in response to shorter days in late summer and fall.
- They can be used to teach children about plant growth cycles, pollination, and the importance of insects in gardens.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is believed to bring happiness and laughter to the home in Feng Shui, and can be used to uplift the energy when placed in the living room or other spaces where family members gather. It is associated with joy and the ability to ease tension, making it a good choice for areas where there is disagreement or stress.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and well-being, as they are known to bloom for a long time.
- Rebirth: Their tendency to bloom in autumn can symbolize rebirth and new beginnings, as they provide a burst of color when many other plants are dying off.
- Nobility: In some cultures, particularly in Asia, chrysanthemums are seen as symbols of nobility and elegance.
- Loyalty: The chrysanthemum's hardiness and reliability to bloom annually can be seen as emblematic of loyalty and steadfastness.
- Love: In some forms of flower symbolism, chrysanthemums can represent a strong and healthy love between people.
- Death: In European cultures, chrysanthemums are often associated with death and are frequently used as memorial flowers, especially on All Saints' Day.
WaterMums, such as Chrysanthemum 'Imp', should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. On average, this may mean watering once every 2-3 days during hot, dry periods and less frequently during cooler, rainy spells. When watering, evenly moisten the soil with about 1 gallon of water per plant, ensuring that you avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases. During the winter months or cooler weather, reduce the frequency to avoid waterlogging as they require less moisture when growth slows down.
LightMums thrive in full sun, so the ideal location for Chrysanthemum 'Imp' is a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. While they can tolerate light shade, too much shade will result in a leggy plant with fewer blooms. Ensure that the chosen spot is well-lit throughout the day for optimal flowering and growth.
TemperatureMums prefer a moderate temperature range and do best in conditions between 60°F and 75°F. Chrysanthemum 'Imp' can survive temperature dips down to 32°F but should be protected from frost to prevent damage to the plant. To encourage bud development, a period of cooler temperatures around 55°F to 60°F is beneficial, especially at night.
PruningPrune Mums, like Chrysanthemum 'Imp', to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth, which results in more blooms. Pinching back the tips when new growth reaches 4 to 6 inches in spring and early summer will help achieve this. Additionally, cut back the plant after it finishes blooming in the fall to about 1 to 2 inches above the ground to prepare it for winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining soil enriched with compost. The ideal soil pH for Chrysanthemum 'Imp', commonly known as garden mum or florists' chrysanthemum, is between 6.5 and 6.7. A mix of peat, perlite, and organic matter creates the best environment for mums, ensuring proper drainage and nutrient retention.
RepottingGarden mums like Chrysanthemum 'Imp' should be repotted every 1-2 years or when they outgrow their current container. This ensures they have sufficient space to grow and receive adequate nutrients from fresh soil.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemum 'Imp', commonly known as garden mum, prefers moderate humidity levels. Maintaining indoor humidity around 40-60% is generally suitable for these plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure adequate airflow for garden mums.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to part-shade, shelter from harsh elements, enrich soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Imp', commonly known as Hardy Garden Mum, begins its life as a seed or as a division from the parent plant. Upon germination, the seedling stage involves root establishment and the sprouting of initial leaves. It transitions to a vegetative state where the plant focuses on growth, developing a robust stem and foliage structure through photosynthesis. Pre-flowering, the plant undergoes a period of bud formation as daylight decreases, leading to the flowering stage where vibrant blooms appear, typically in late summer or fall. After pollination, it produces seeds, completing its reproductive cycle. Lastly, the plant enters dormancy in winter, conserving energy to survive until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Chrysanthemum 'Imp', commonly known as "mum", is typically propagated through division, which is one of its most popular methods. This process is best performed in the spring as the new growth begins to appear. To propagate by division, a gardener would carefully dig up an established mum plant and gently separate the clump into smaller sections, making sure that each section has a healthy supply of roots and a few shoots. These divisions should then be replanted in well-draining soil at the same depth they were originally growing. Water the new plants thoroughly to help them settle in and establish a strong root system. This method ensures genetic consistency, as the new plants will be exact clones of the parent plant.
