Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Joshua Hunter' (29d)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Joshua Hunter' is a type of chrysanthemum recognized for its vibrant blossom and decorative appeal. It has a lavish display of flowers which could either be single or double blooms depending on the variety. Their petals are arranged in a dense, overlapping pattern and have a rich color that could range from vivid yellows to deep reds. The center of the flowers generally contains a contrasting hue, often appearing as a button-like eye that attracts garden visitors and pollinators alike. The leaves of 'Joshua Hunter' are typically dark green with a matte finish, providing a lush backdrop for the bright flowers. They are deeply lobed and can have serrated edges, giving the foliage a textured appearance. Together, the combination of the foliage and flowers provides a striking visual contrast. Chrysanthemum 'Joshua Hunter' is prized for its long blooming period where it can provide color and interest in a garden or as a cut flower in arrangements. The visual appeal of the plant makes it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their landscape in the seasons when it is in bloom.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mum, Chrysanthemum
Common names
Chrysanthemum x morifolium 'Joshua Hunter'.
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are not considered highly toxic to humans, but they can cause some irritation if ingested. The most common symptoms of ingestion can include dermatitis, skin rashes, or gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If any parts of the plant are consumed in significant quantities, medical attention may be necessary. Individuals with allergies to the Asteraceae/Compositae family may be more susceptible to adverse reactions.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, including cats and dogs, and are known to cause symptoms of poisoning if ingested. Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In more severe cases, ingestion could lead to systemic effects, including neurological symptoms like seizures. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of a chrysanthemum, contact your veterinarian immediately.
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- Ornamental Value: Chrysanthemums are popular for their showy flowers that can add aesthetic appeal to gardens and bouquets.
- Seasonal Display: They typically bloom in the fall, providing vibrant color late in the growing season when other plants are starting to fade.
- Diversity of Color: Chrysanthemums come in a wide range of colors, allowing for varied design and color themes in landscaping.
- Longevity of Blooms: The blooms of chrysanthemums can last for several weeks, providing a long-lasting display.
- Easy to Grow: They are relatively easy to cultivate and can be grown in many different climates and soil types.
- Pest Resistance: Chrysanthemums have compounds that can naturally deter certain pests, making them a beneficial companion plant.
- Variety of Uses: Beyond ornamental use, they can be used in cut-flower arrangements, pot cultivation, or as show plants.
- Symbolic Meaning: They often hold cultural significance in various societies, symbolizing fidelity, optimism, joy, and long life.
- Attracts Pollinators: They attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, which aid in pollination of gardens.
- Garden Filler: They can be used effectively to fill gaps in the garden, creating a full and abundant garden space.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, chrysanthemums generally require minimal care, making them suitable for busy gardeners.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Biological Pest Control: Chrysanthemums can be planted alongside crops as a companion plant to ward off harmful insects due to their natural insecticidal properties, specifically pyrethrins.
- Photography Subject: With their bright colors and intricate patterns, Chrysanthemums like 'Joshua Hunter' are often used as subjects in floral and botanical photography, providing an excellent opportunity for photographers to showcase their skill.
- Natural Dye: The petals of Chrysanthemums can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics, yielding colors from golden yellow to deep orange depending on the mordant used.
- Artistic Inspiration: These plants offer rich inspiration to artists for their distinctive shapes and can be incorporated into paintings, drawings, and textile designs.
- Educational Tool: Horticulture educators can use Chrysanthemums to teach students about plant biology, hybridization, and the life cycle of perennials.
- Garden Design: They can be used to create vibrant borders or as part of a color-themed garden, complementing foliage and other flowering plants.
- Motif in Design: Elements of the Chrysanthemum flower are often replicated in architectural ornamentation, home decor, and in designing patterns for wallpaper or fabrics.
- Cultural Symbolism: Often used in cultural festivals and events to symbolize happiness and longevity, influencing decor and theming for various celebrations.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not commonly consumed, the petals of certain Chrysanthemum varieties may be used as a colorful, edible garnish for salads and desserts, provided they are free of pesticides and are of an edible variety.
- Floral Arrangement Workshops: Chrysanthemums make excellent subjects for floral design classes, helping people learn the art of bouquet making and floral arrangements.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums have long been associated with long life due to their hardiness and ability to bloom into the late autumn.
- Loyalty and Devotion: Their ability to withstand cold weather also symbolizes persistent loyalty and unwavering devotion.
- Happiness and Joy: Chrysanthemums are considered to be flowers of happiness due to their bright and cheerful appearance.
- Rebirth and Renewal: Blooming in the fall, chrysanthemums symbolize the idea of rebirth and starting anew, even as the colder months approach.
- Love and Affection: In some cultures, chrysanthemums are given as expressions of love and strong affection towards someone.
WaterMums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Joshua Hunter', should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. It's best to water them deeply, ensuring the water reaches the roots. In general, watering with about one inch (which is approximately 0.6 gallons) of water per week should suffice, but this can vary depending on climate conditions. Always check the top inch of soil before watering; if it feels dry, it's time to water. During hot, dry spells, more frequent watering may be necessary, possibly every other day.
LightMums are best suited to bright, indirect sunlight. The most ideal spot for a Chrysanthemum 'Joshua Hunter' is where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight per day. Direct, harsh afternoon sun can be detrimental, so a location with morning sunlight and dappled afternoon shade is optimal. These lighting conditions encourage robust growth and plentiful blooms.
TemperatureMums prefer moderate temperatures and will thrive in a range between 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and not lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit at night. It's crucial to avoid exposing the Chrysanthemum 'Joshua Hunter' to temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, as frost can cause significant damage to the plant. The ideal growth conditions are consistent daytime temperatures just under 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning is essential for mums to promote bushier growth and more prolific blooms. Prune your Chrysanthemum 'Joshua Hunter' in early spring when new growth appears and again in mid-summer to shape the plant and encourage branching. Pinch back about one inch of growth each time. The best time for the last pruning is by the Fourth of July, to allow buds to form for fall blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 6.7. To create the best soil mix, combine equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Regular amendment with compost will help to maintain soil fertility.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. The best time to repot is in the spring after the last frost when the plant is just beginning to grow again.
Humidity & MistingMums thrive in average household humidity levels; however, they benefit from slightly increased humidity. Aim for a relative humidity level around 60% to keep your Mums healthy without needing to adjust the moisture levels frequently.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and regular watering.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from extreme cold.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Chrysanthemum 'Joshua Hunter,' commonly known as the Hardy Mum or Garden Mum, begins with seed germination, where proper soil temperature and moisture conditions allow the seed to sprout and develop roots and shoots. After germination, the seedling stage follows, during which the young plant grows true leaves and establishes its root system. The vegetative stage is next, characterized by significant growth of foliage and stems as the plant matures; in perennial varieties like 'Joshua Hunter,' this stage can continue year after year. Following the vegetative phase is the flowering stage, where the Hardy Mum develops distinctive flower buds that bloom into vibrant flowers, often in late summer or fall. After blooming, the plant enters a senescence phase where above-ground parts die back, particularly in response to cooler temperatures and shorter days. Finally, in the dormancy stage during winter, the plant's growth slows or ceases above ground, while the root system remains alive to begin the cycle again in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Chrysanthemum 'Joshua Hunter', more commonly known as Mum, is frequently propagated through the division of the plant. Propagation is typically most successful in the spring, as this allows the newly divided plants plenty of time to establish themselves during the growing season. To propagate Mums by division, carefully dig up the entire plant. Gently break apart the clumps into smaller sections, making sure that each division has a good amount of roots and several shoots. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growing space. Water the new plants thoroughly after planting to encourage root development. This method is popular for its simplicity and effectiveness in producing new, healthy Mum plants quite rapidly.
