Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Little Dorrit' (21f)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Little Dorrit' is a beautiful flowering plant that showcases an array of striking blossoms. The flowers are the standout feature of this particular variety of chrysanthemums, presenting a vibrant color palette that can include shades of yellow, pink, purple, or even red. Each flower head is full and lush, consisting of numerous small, tightly packed petals that radiate out from the center, creating a pompom-like effect. The petals have a soft and velvety texture, which contrasts nicely with the semi-glossy, deep green foliage that forms a bushy backdrop for the colorful display. The leaves of 'Little Dorrit' are typically lobed or deeply divided with a somewhat oval shape. They are moderate in size and have a slightly serrated edge, adding to the overall textured appearance of the plant. The stems are sturdy, holding the flower heads aloft so they can sway gently in the breeze, adding dynamic movement to a garden display. In a garden setting, 'Little Dorrit' chrysanthemums are often admired for their dainty and compact form, which allows them to fit nicely within mixed borders or as a standalone feature in a display. Their blooms typically appear in the later seasons, providing a burst of color when many other plants have finished their flowering period, which can be particularly delightful in autumn when the days are growing shorter and other colors are fading.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Mum, Chrysanth.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Little Dorrit'
- Toxicity
To humans
Chrysanthemum, commonly known as mums, are generally considered to have low toxicity to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant can cause mild irritation to the mouth, stomach discomfort, and in rare cases, may induce a skin rash if there is direct contact. Serious poisoning is uncommon, but consuming large quantities might exacerbate symptoms.
To pets
Chrysanthemum can be toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. Symptoms of chrysanthemum poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis if there is skin contact. The plant contains compounds called pyrethrins, which can be harmful if ingested in significant amounts. It is advisable to prevent pets from consuming any part of the plant to avoid these potential reactions.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Aesthetic appeal: The Chrysanthemum 'Little Dorrit' features distinctive blooms that enhance the visual interest of gardens and landscapes.
- Seasonal color: It blooms in late summer to autumn, providing color when many other plants are starting to decline.
- Attracts pollinators: The flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity.
- Versatility: 'Little Dorrit' is suitable for borders, containers, and as cut flowers due to its compact size and attractive form.
- Low maintenance: Once established, this chrysanthemum requires minimal care beyond regular watering and occasional feeding.
- Drought resistance: It can cope with periods of dry weather once it is established, making it suitable for various climates.
- 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
- Photography Prop: Chrysanthemums are popular in floral photography for their vivid colors and intricate petal structures, adding visual interest to close-up shots.
- Artistic Inspiration: The rich variety of chrysanthemum colors can inspire artists for paintings, textile designs, and other forms of artwork.
- Educational Tool: Horticulture educators use different varieties of chrysanthemums like 'Little Dorrit' to teach plant breeding and genetics.
- Culinary Garnish: Edible chrysanthemum varieties can be used to garnish dishes with their petals for a splash of color and subtle flavor.
- Craft Supplies: Dried chrysanthemum petals can be used in paper-making, potpourri, or other crafts that require natural, biodegradable materials.
- Event Decorations: Due to their diverse colors and sizes, chrysanthemums are used in event decorations, from table centerpieces to venue arrangements.
- Tattoo Design: Chrysanthemums are often chosen for tattoo designs because of their symbolism associated with life and rebirth in some cultures.
- Natural Fabric Dyes: The petals of certain chrysanthemum flowers can be used to create natural dyes for fabric, offering a range of colors.
- Botanical Illustration: Chrysanthemums are a popular subject in botanical illustration due to their complex and intricate forms.
- Greeting Cards: Pressed chrysanthemum flowers are often featured on greeting cards to add a three-dimensional and personal touch.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui to attract positive energy and promote relaxation. It's recommended to place Chrysanthemums in areas where calmness and well-being are desired, such as the living room or bedroom, to help purify the air and encourage tranquility.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums, frequently known as "mums," are often associated with long life and well-being, partially due to their hardiness and ability to bloom well into autumn.
- Rebirth and Renewal: The cyclical blooming of mums each year symbolizes the ideas of rebirth and new beginnings, making them fitting representations for spring or significant life changes.
- Happiness and Joy: The bright and varied colors of Chrysanthemum 'Little Dorrit' evoke feelings of cheerfulness and are often used in celebratory occasions to express joy.
- Friendship: Gifting mums can symbolize a strong and supportive friendship, especially when choosing colors like yellow or white which commonly represent friendship and well-wishes.
- Peace and Relaxation: The Chrysanthemum is also known to represent tranquility and the relaxation, encouraging a peaceful state of mind.
- Water
Mums, like Chrysanthemum 'Little Dorrit', should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. They typically need to be watered once every two to three days, depending on the weather conditions and soil drainage. Always check the top inch of the soil before watering; if it's dry, it's time to water. When watering, avoid splashing water on the leaves as this can promote disease. Aim for about 1 gallon of water for outdoor plants each watering session to ensure the soil is thoroughly moistened.
- Light
Mums, including the 'Little Dorrit', thrive best in full sunlight conditions, which means they require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for these plants is in a garden bed that has clear exposure to the sun, avoiding any significant shade from buildings or trees. While they can tolerate partial shade, their blooming might be reduced.
- Temperature
Mums generally prefer cooler temperatures and the ideal growing conditions for 'Little Dorrit' are between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate minimum temperatures down to around 32 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures up to about 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures outside the ideal range may stress the plant and affect blooming.
- Pruning
Pruning mums helps maintain their shape and encourages bushier growth, which leads to more blooms. For 'Little Dorrit', pinch back the tips of the stems in early summer, removing about 1 inch of growth to encourage branching. Repeat the pinching process every few weeks until mid-summer to maximize flowering. Avoid pruning after this period to allow flower buds to form.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Mums, including 'Little Dorrit,' thrive best in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH near neutral (6.0-7.0). A mix consisting of equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or vermiculite can provide the right balance of drainage and moisture retention. To enhance fertility, it's advisable to incorporate compost or a slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for flowering plants into the mix.
- Repotting
Chrysanthemums, like 'Little Dorrit,' generally need to be repotted every 1-2 years to ensure they have enough room to grow and access to fresh soil nutrients. They are typically repotted in the spring just before the onset of the growing season to minimize stress and allow for a period of robust growth.
- Humidity & Misting
Mums, including 'Little Dorrit,' prefer moderate humidity levels between 40-60%. While they are adaptable to a range of humidity conditions, extremes of high or low humidity can stress the plant and may require remediation to maintain plant health.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright, indirect sunlight with good air circulation.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
- Life cycle
The life cycle of Chrysanthemum 'Little Dorrit', commonly known as the Hardy Garden Mum, begins with seed germination when conditions are favorable, usually in early spring. As a perennial, it proceeds to the vegetative stage, developing roots, shoots, and leaves, and forms a bushy clump. In the reproductive stage during later summer to fall, it produces an abundance of small, decorative flowers that attract pollinators. After flowering, seeds may be produced if flowers are pollinated, completing the reproductive cycle. As temperatures drop towards winter, the plant enters a dormancy stage, preserving energy by dying back to the ground. With the return of warm weather in the following spring, the plant breaks dormancy, regrowing from the root system to start the cycle anew.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Little Dorrit', commonly known as mums, is effectively propagated through division, which is the most popular method. This should ideally be performed in the spring when new growth appears. To propagate, carefully dig up the established plant, ensuring a generous root ball is intact. Then gently separate the plant into smaller clumps, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions promptly at the same depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them in their new locations. This simple process rejuvenates the plants, ensuring healthy, robust mums for the following season.