Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Lautrec'
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Lautrec' is a captivating ornamental plant known for its lush, vibrant blooms. Its flowers are the centerpiece of its appearance, showcasing a beautiful array of petals that create a full and rounded look. The petals have a delicate texture, often seen in layers that give the blooms a sense of depth and volume. The color of the petals can greatly enhance the aesthetic appeal of this plant, with hues that can range from soft pastels to vivid, intense shades, depending on the specific variety. The foliage of the Chrysanthemum 'Lautrec' forms an attractive backdrop to its stunning flowers. The leaves exhibit a rich green color, and their shape complements the overall form of the plant. The leaves may have a slightly serrated edge, contributing to the plant's textured appearance. Overall, the visual impact of the Chrysanthemum 'Lautrec' is one of lushness and vibrant beauty, with its blooms taking center stage and captivating onlookers with their impressive display. The plant exudes a sense of fullness and vitality, making it a popular choice for adding a splash of color to gardens and floral arrangements alike.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Mum, Chrysanthemum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Lautrec'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Chrysanthemum, commonly referred to as mums, can be slightly toxic if ingested by humans. This plant contains compounds that may cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals upon contact. If ingested, symptoms of poisoning can include gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion could potentially lead to more serious symptoms requiring medical attention.
To pets
Mums are toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If a pet ingests any part of the plant, they may suffer from symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In some cases, ingestion could lead to more serious conditions if not treated promptly. Pet owners should contact a veterinarian if they suspect their pet has consumed any part of a mum plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-3 feet (30-91 cm)
Spread
1-3 feet (30-91 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds color and vibrancy to gardens with its bright blooms.
- Long Blooming Season: Offers a prolonged display of flowers from late summer to frost.
- Attracts Pollinators: Invites beneficial insects like bees and butterflies to the garden.
- Versatile Planting: Suitable for borders, pots, and as cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for busy gardeners.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dry weather.
- Edible Flowers: Some varieties' blooms are edible and can be used in salads and other dishes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural fabric dye - The flowers of the chrysanthemum can be used to create a natural yellow or golden dye for textiles.
- Companion planting - Chrysanthemums can be planted among vegetables as they are thought to deter certain pests through their natural chemical compounds.
- Artistic inspiration - The distinctive appearance of chrysanthemums has served as inspiration for artists in various mediums, including painting and photography.
- Culinary garnish - Petals from chrysanthemums are sometimes used as a colorful, edible garnish in salads and fancy dishes.
- Flower arranging - With their vibrant colors and full blooms, chrysanthemums are a popular choice for floral arrangements and bouquets.
- Biological research - As a model organism, chrysanthemums can be used in studies on plant biology and genetics.
- Eco-friendly pest control - Chrysanthemum extracts are used in certain eco-friendly insecticides, taking advantage of their natural pest-repellent properties.
- Decoration in cultural festivals - In some cultures, chrysanthemums are displayed during special festivities as symbols of joy and beauty.
- Personal adornment - Flowers or petals of the chrysanthemum may be used to decorate the hair or clothing during special occasions.
- Photography subject - Due to their varied and striking appearance, chrysanthemums are a popular subject for amateur and professional photographers alike.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui to bring happiness and laughter into the home, as well as to ease tension and ensure longevity. It is associated with the autumn season and can be placed in the living areas of a home to introduce yang energy, promoting optimism and good mood.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and well-being, due in part to their hardy nature and ability to bloom in the fall when many other flowers have finished for the season.
- Rebirth and Renewal: Since chrysanthemums bloom in fall, a season which is often associated with the end of cycles, they also symbolize the idea of rebirth and the renewal that can follow a period of dormancy or decline.
- Loyalty and Devotion: In some cultures, particularly in Asia, the chrysanthemum represents loyalty and devotion between friends or within families, often given as a gift to show one's steadfastness.
- Regality and Nobility: The chrysanthemum is considered noble and is often associated with royalty, reflecting class and high status, especially in traditional Japanese culture where it's part of the Emperor's official seal.
- Joy and Optimism: Their bright, cheerful flowers are emblematic of joy and optimism, bringing a positive light into homes and gardens.
- Death and Grieving: In some European cultures, chrysanthemums are symbolic of death and are often used for memorials and to honor those who have passed away, representing grief and sorrow but also the beauty and peace of life's cycle.
WaterMums, also known as Chrysanthemums, should be watered regularly to maintain moist but not soggy soil, especially during their growth season in the spring and summer. Generally, water deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water which equates to about 0.623 gallons per square yard of soil. Adjust the frequency based on weather conditions; water more often during hot, dry spells and less during cool, rainy periods. Avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can promote disease. In containers, water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which could be every few days depending on environmental factors.
LightMums thrive best in bright, indirect sunlight, so placing them in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal. They can also grow well in full sun conditions but may require more frequent watering to avoid stress. Avoid deep shade as it can lead to poor blooming and leggy growth.
TemperatureMums prefer moderate temperatures and can tolerate a range from as low as 32°F to a maximum of about 90°F. The ideal temperature range is between 60°F and 75°F. They can survive light frosts but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can damage the plant.
PruningPruning mums helps encourage bushier growth and more prolific blooming. Pinch back the tips when new growth reaches about 6 inches in the spring and continue every few weeks until midsummer. Stop pinching around early July to allow flower buds to form. The best time for major pruning is after the blooming cycle is over, usually in late fall or early winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums prefer a well-draining potting mix with organic matter and a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Amend soil with compost and peat moss for best results.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years or when root bound to maintain health and vigor.
Humidity & MistingMums thrive in moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%, avoiding excessively dry or moist air, which can lead to stress.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil consistently moist.
Outdoor
Choose a sunny spot and ensure soil has good drainage.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Lautrec', commonly known as mums, starts its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs in a moist, well-draining environment with sufficient warmth. After germination, the seedlings grow into young plants with characteristic foliage, which then mature and develop a robust root system. The mature plants enter a vegetative stage where they produce dense leaves and stems in preparation for flowering. As the plant approaches the blooming stage, flower buds appear and eventually open into the recognizable flowers of the Chrysanthemum 'Lautrec', exhibiting vibrant colors and various forms depending on the cultivar. Post-blooming, the flowers wither, and the plant may set seeds if pollination has occurred, which can be collected for future propagation. Lastly, mums often enter a period of dormancy during cold weather, where they die back to the ground and regrow from their root system with the arrival of more favorable conditions in the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Lautrec', commonly known as mums, can be propagated most effectively through division. This method involves gently separating an established plant into smaller sections, each with its own set of roots, and replanting them. The best time to divide mums is in the spring when new growth appears. The process begins by digging up the entire plant, being careful to preserve as much of the root system as possible. The clumps are then divided by hand or with a sharp knife, ensuring that each section has a healthy portion of roots attached. These divisions are then immediately planted in well-draining soil at the same depth they were originally growing, and watered thoroughly. This encourages a rejuvenated growth of the parent plant and increases the number of mums in your garden.
