Mabel Pink Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Mabel Pink' (PBR)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Mabel Pink' is a lush, flowering plant known for its vibrant display. It is characterized by a profusion of pink blooms that boast a decorative, fluffy appearance. Each flower is composed of a multitude of small, tightly-packed petals that create a pom-pom like effect. The petals have a soft, delicate texture, and the pink hue can range from subtle, pastel shades to more vivid, eye-catching tones, depending on various factors. The vibrant blooms create a striking contrast against the dark green foliage. The leaves are deeply lobed, with a somewhat glossy surface, contributing to the plant's overall lush and verdant appearance. The combination of the bright, cheerful pink flowers and the rich green leaves makes the Chrysanthemum 'Mabel Pink' a popular choice for adding a pop of color to gardens and floral displays.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Mabel Pink Chrysanthemum, Mabel Pink Mum, Mabel Pink Garden Mum.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Mabel Pink' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are not considered highly toxic to humans, but they can cause dermatitis, or skin irritation, in some people who are sensitive or allergic to the plant's oils or sap. If ingested, they might cause mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It's generally advised to avoid eating any parts of the chrysanthemum plant.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. If a pet ingests part of a mum, it could lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can result in more serious signs like tremors or difficulty breathing, though this is rare. It's important to keep mums out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet [60 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: 'Mabel Pink' Chrysanthemums offer vibrant pink blooms that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Pollinator friendly: These plants attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting biodiversity.
- Long flowering period: They have a lengthy blooming season, providing color and interest from late summer to fall.
- Low maintenance: Chrysanthemums are relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, they can tolerate periods of low water, making them suitable for xeriscaping and drought-prone areas.
- Adaptability: They are adaptable to a range of soil types, provided the soil is well-draining.
- Container gardening: 'Mabel Pink' Chrysanthemums are suitable for pots and containers, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Cold hardiness: They are generally hardy and can withstand cooler temperatures, which is ideal for temperate climates.
- Cut flowers: The blooms make excellent cut flowers for arrangements, lasting well in vases.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The petals of Chrysanthemums can be used to produce a natural yellow dye for textiles.
- Companion Planting: Chrysanthemums are commonly planted in gardens to repel harmful insects, serving as a natural insecticide for protecting vegetables or ornamental plants.
- Culinary Garnish: The petals of certain edible varieties of Chrysanthemums can be used as a colorful garnish for salads and desserts.
- Artistic Inspiration: The vibrant colors and shapes of Chrysanthemum flowers have been used as motifs in textiles, such as embroideries and weavings, as well as in various forms of visual arts.
- Fragrance Extraction: The essential oils from Chrysanthemum flowers can be extracted and used as a component in perfumery and aromatherapy.
- Crafts: Dried Chrysanthemum flowers are commonly used in making potpourri and decorative wreaths due to their shape and longevity when dried.
- Photography: Chrysanthemums feature complex blooms that are a favorite subject for botanical photography and flower arranging tutorials.
- Floral Arrangements: Their robust stems and bold colors make Chrysanthemums a popular choice for use in formal flower arrangements and bridal bouquets.
- Biological Studies: Chrysanthemums are sometimes used in biological research due to their diverse morphology and genetics.
- Educational Tools: In schools, Chrysanthemums can be used to teach botany and horticulture students about plant growth, flower structure, and the life cycle of perennials.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is associated with happiness and well-being in Feng Shui, therefore to use it according to Feng Shui, place the Chrysanthemum in areas where you wish to boost optimistic energy, such as living rooms or offices. Its pink color can also be used to nurture love and care within relationships when placed in the love and marriage area of a space.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums are often a symbol of longevity due to their hardiness and ability to withstand the first frost of autumn.
- Rebirth and Renewal: They bloom in the fall, a season often associated with the end of cycles, which signifies the idea of rebirth and new beginnings.
- Loyalty and Devotion: In many cultures, chrysanthemums are given to show loyalty and steadfastness in relationships.
- Joy and Optimism: Their bright and vibrant colors represent happiness and a positive outlook on life.
- Nobility: In some Asian cultures, the chrysanthemum is a noble flower, often associated with royalty and elegance.
- Grieving and Sorrow: In some European countries, chrysanthemums are symbolic of mourning and are often used in funerary arrangements.
WaterMums, including the variety Chrysanthemum 'Mabel Pink', prefer consistently moist soil, which means they should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This often translates to watering once or twice a week, but the schedule may vary depending on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. Provide about 1 gallon of water per watering session for a medium-sized plant, ensuring water reaches the root zone. During hot spells, watering frequency may need to increase to maintain moisture levels, while in cooler or rainy periods, it may decrease. Always avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases.
LightMums thrive in full sun, so place your Chrysanthemum 'Mabel Pink' where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. An east-facing spot that gets morning sun is ideal as it avoids the intense heat of late afternoon sun, which can sometimes stress the plants, especially in hotter climates. However, in regions with very intense sun, some light afternoon shade might be beneficial.
TemperatureMums, such as Chrysanthemum 'Mabel Pink', perform best in temperate conditions, generally between 60°F and 70°F. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 32°F, surviving light frosts, but sustained temperatures below this can be harmful. The upper limit for comfortable growth is around 80°F; beyond this point, plants may experience stress. Ensure good air circulation around the mums to help maintain a cooler microclimate.
PruningPruning Chrysanthemum 'Mabel Pink', also known simply as mums, is crucial for maintaining a compact, bushy shape and encouraging more blooms. Pinch back the tips of the stems in early summer, which will stimulate the plant to branch out, and continue to pinch until mid-summer to promote fall flowering. Deadheading spent flowers regularly will also enhance the appearance and promote further blooming. The best time for major pruning is after the flowering season, before they go dormant for winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHardy mums like Chrysanthemum 'Mabel Pink' thrive in well-draining soil with high organic matter. Ideal soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of loam, peat, and perlite or sand can promote good drainage and root health.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and provide space for root growth, ideally in spring before active growth starts.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer moderate humidity levels. Aim for 40-60% relative humidity for optimal growth, avoiding environments that are too dry or overly humid.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light; water when top soil feels dry.
Outdoor
Full sun, shelter from strong winds, and well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the chrysanthemum 'Mabel Pink' begins with seed germination, which takes place in a warm, moist soil environment. Once the seeds germinate, the plant enters the seedling stage, developing its first true leaves and roots. As it matures, it enters the vegetative stage, where it grows to its full size and produces lush foliage. During the blooming stage, which typically occurs in late summer or fall, 'Mabel Pink' produces its distinctive pink flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the plant may produce seeds if the flowers are left to complete their life cycle. Finally, as a perennial, it enters a period of dormancy during the winter, only to regrow from its root system with the arrival of the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The Chrysanthemum 'Mabel Pink', commonly known as mums or chrysanths, is typically propagated through cuttings, which is the most popular method due to its simplicity and effectiveness. The best time to take cuttings for propagation is in the spring, when the plant is producing new, vigorous growth. To propagate, you choose a healthy stem and cut a 4 to 6-inch (approximately 10 to 15 cm) section just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until roots develop, which usually takes about two to three weeks. During this time, the cutting should be kept in indirect light and maintained at a consistent temperature to ensure the best chance of rooting. Once established, the new chrysanthemum plant can be transferred to a larger pot or planted out in the garden.
