Garden mum Chrysanthemum Lisa = 'Yolisa' (22c)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum Lisa, commonly known as the mum, is characterized by its showy flowers that make it a popular choice for gardens and floral displays. The 'Yolisa' variety boasts blooms that are dense and compact, lending a full, lush appearance to the plant. These blossoms typically exhibit a vibrant color palette that can range from bright yellows to warm oranges, often with a gradient or blending of hues that gives each flower a unique character. The individual flowers are composed of numerous petals that radiate from the center, creating a dome or cushion-like shape which is common among mums. Each petal is soft and may have a slightly elongated, spoon-shaped form that edges outwards, contributing to the flower's ornate and generous look. The foliage of the Chrysanthemum Lisa is equally attractive, with leaves that are deep green and have a glossy texture that contrasts nicely with the colorful blooms. Overall, the Chrysanthemum Lisa 'Yolisa' presents itself as a dense, flowering plant that exudes warmth and radiance through its profuse and vivid blossoms set against a backdrop of rich, green leaves.
About this plant
- Names
Synonyms
Garden Mum, Florist's Chrysanthemum, Hardy Chrysanthemum.
Common names
Chrysanthemum x morifolium 'Yolisa', Dendranthema grandiflorum 'Yolisa'.
- Toxicity
To humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are generally considered to have low toxicity for humans. However, these plants can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals when they come in contact with the skin. Ingesting parts of the plant may potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but it is not commonly eaten due to its bitter taste and is not considered a major risk for poisoning. The consequences of ingesting chrysanthemum are typically minor and may include symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and salivation.
To pets
Chrysanthemums (mums) are toxic to pets, including dogs, cats, and horses. The toxic principle in these plants is a compound called pyrethrin, which can cause a range of symptoms if ingested. In pets, the symptoms of chrysanthemum poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to depression, loss of appetite, and even neurological symptoms such as tremors or seizures. Owners should prevent their pets from consuming any part of the plant and should seek veterinary attention if they suspect their pet has ingested chrysanthemums.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Low Maintenance: The Chrysanthemum Lisa is known for being relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal attention beyond basic watering and occasional feeding.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it is tolerant of short periods of drought, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates.
- Attracts Pollinators: It can attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies to the garden, which can help pollinate other plants.
- Long Blooming Period: This plant typically has a long flowering season, providing color in the garden from late summer through fall.
- Versatile: It can be used in various garden settings including borders, beds, and containers.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its bright, cheerful blooms, it adds a splash of color to any landscape or garden.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Artistic Dye: The petals of the chrysanthemum can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics, offering a range of colors from yellow to green depending on the mordant used.
- Craft Projects: Dried chrysanthemum flowers can be incorporated into scrapbooking, pressed flower art, or homemade potpourri for a touch of nature inside the home.
- Pest Repellent: Some gardeners use chrysanthemum leaves or flowers to repel insects in garden beds, as they contain natural compounds that some pests find distasteful.
- Culinary Decoration: Fresh chrysanthemum petals can be used to elegantly decorate cakes or desserts, providing a splash of color and a unique garnish.
- Photography: The vibrant and structured blooms of the chrysanthemum can be used as subjects in photography, helping photographers to learn about color, texture, and composition.
- Natural Confetti: Biodegradable and much more environmentally friendly than synthetic alternatives, chrysanthemum petals can be tossed at celebrations as natural confetti.
- Teaching Tool: Chrysanthemums can be used in educational settings to teach botany and horticulture, providing hands-on experience in plant growth and care.
- Feng Shui: In some cultures, chrysanthemums are used in Feng Shui to bring happiness and laughter to the home, as well as to symbolize a life of ease.
- Bookmarks: Dried chrysanthemum blooms can be laminated or inserted into clear sleeves to create unique and aromatic bookmarks for avid readers.
- Candle Embeds: Dried chrysanthemum petals can be embedded into candles to add visual appeal and a slight scent when the wax melts around them.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui to promote happiness and well-being and is often placed in areas of the home where new energy is desired. It is especially beneficial in the living room to invite joyful energy, or in the home office space to encourage intellectual accomplishments.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums have long been associated with longevity due to their health-giving properties in traditional Asian medicine and their ability to bloom late into the fall.
- Rejuvenation and Recovery: The unfolding petals of the chrysanthemum are thought to represent the process of recovery or a return to good health, making them a common get-well gift.
- Nobility and Honor: In Japan, the chrysanthemum is a symbol of the emperor and the imperial family, representing perfection, nobility, and longevity.
- Grief and Mourning: In some European cultures, chrysanthemums are symbolic of death and are often used for funerals or to honor a life that has passed away.
- Friendship and Well-Wishing: Chrysanthemums are also indicative of strong friendship and well-wishing, especially when given to a friend or loved one.
- True Love: In some cultures, a red chrysanthemum signifies deep passion and the ideal of 'true love.'
- Honesty and Sincerity: The chrysanthemum is sometimes given to represent honesty and the sharing of truthful feelings.
- Joy and Optimism: With their bright and cheerful flowers, chrysanthemums often stand for happiness and a positive outlook on life.
- Water
Chrysanthemums should be watered deeply, so the soil becomes moist but not soggy, amounting to about 1 gallon per week, depending on weather conditions. During the growing season, watering may need to be more frequent, especially in the case of potted mums or during dry spells. Ensure the plant gets consistent moisture but do not overwater as this can lead to root rot. It's important to water the plant at its base, keeping the foliage dry to prevent disease.
- Light
Mums thrive in full sunlight, so it's best to place your Chrysanthemum 'Yolisa' in a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot is an east or west-facing garden where the plant can soak up the morning or late afternoon sun. Avoid placing it in deep shade as this will affect its flowering potential.
- Temperature
Chrysanthemum 'Yolisa' prefers a temperature range between 60°F to 70°F but can tolerate down to 32°F during dormancy and can survive up to 90°F though extreme temperatures can stress the plant. Ensure to protect the plant from frost and prolonged exposure to high heat.
- Pruning
Prune Chrysanthemum 'Yolisa' to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch back the tips when the plant is about 6 inches tall and continue to do so every few weeks until mid-summer. The best time for heavy pruning is in early spring just as new growth begins to appear.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
The best soil mix for Chrysanthemum, commonly known as mum, is well-draining and fertile. A mixture of peat, perlite, and compost is ideal to provide the necessary nutrients and drainage. Mums prefer a soil pH of around 6.5 to 6.7.
- Repotting
Mums should be repotted every 1 to 2 years to refresh the soil and prevent root crowding. Choose a slightly larger pot each time to accommodate root growth.
- Humidity & Misting
Mums thrive in moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%. Avoid excessively dry or humid conditions to maintain plant health.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place Chrysanthemum Lisa in bright, indirect light and avoid drafts.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to light shade, in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
- Life cycle
The Chrysanthemum Lisa, commonly called Hardy Mum, begins its life cycle as a seed or cutting, germinating or rooting in well-draining soil with adequate warmth and light. Upon establishing roots, the seedling or cutting grows into a vegetative state, with foliage development being robust and bushy due to appropriate cultivation practices such as pinching to encourage branching. As the plant matures, flower buds begin to form, typically triggered by shorter day lengths as the season transitions from summer to fall. The buds bloom into the characteristic vibrant flowers of the Hardy Mum, attracting pollinators and possibly setting seeds if fertilization occurs. After flowering, the plant enters a period of senescence wherein the above-ground parts may die back, particularly in colder climates, with the root system going dormant over winter. In the spring, provided the roots have survived and conditions are favorable, new growth emerges, and the cycle repeats.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Summer
Chrysanthemum Lisa, commonly known as Mum 'Yolisa', is typically propagated through stem cuttings. The most popular method involves taking a 4 to 6-inch cutting (10 to 15 cm) from a healthy, disease-free mother plant during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The cutting is then placed in well-draining soil, such as a mix of peat and perlite, and kept moist but not waterlogged. To maintain a high humidity environment, the cutting can be covered with a plastic bag or placed inside a propagator. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimatized to less humid conditions before being planted out.