Garden Mum Chrysanthemum 'Margaret' (29c)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Margaret' is known for its distinctive and appealing flowers. This variety typically displays a rich and lively color palette, often featuring hues reminiscent of autumn such as deep bronze, yellow, and shades of red. Its blossoms are a true highlight, boasting a profusion of petals that come together in a characteristic pompom or cushion shape, making the flower heads dense and visually striking. The plant itself has a bushy habit, with foliage that complements its showy flowers well. The leaves are generally a deep green color and can be oblong or deeply lobed, presenting a textured appearance that adds to the plant's overall lushness. Chrysanthemum 'Margaret’ blossoms are sizable and showy, making them a popular choice for floral arrangements and garden displays. The petals may have various textures and can be smooth or even slightly quilled, contributing to a rich, intricate look that captures attention. As an ornamental plant, Chrysanthemum 'Margaret' is appreciated for its aesthetic appeal and is often cultivated in gardens and containers where its colorful and abundant flowers can be showcased, bringing a touch of elegance and vibrancy wherever they grow.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Margaret Chrysanthemum, Garden Mum, Mum.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Margaret'
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, as with other members of the Asteraceae family, may be slightly toxic if ingested. They contain compounds such as pyrethrins, which can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals. If parts of the plant are ingested, it can potentially cause gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Direct contact with the skin can sometimes result in dermatitis or skin rashes. It is always a good practice to handle these plants with care and avoid ingesting any part of them.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. The toxicity is due to compounds such as pyrethrins and sesquiterpene lactones found in the plant. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, incoordination, and dermatitis if there's skin contact. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to depression and loss of appetite. It is important to seek veterinary care if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of a chrysanthemum.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
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- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: Chrysanthemum 'Margaret' adds vibrant color and decorative beauty to gardens and landscapes with its striking blooms.
- Attracts Pollinators: The plant is known to attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, which are essential for the pollination of many plants.
- Seasonal Interest: It flowers in late summer to autumn, providing color and interest during a time when many other plants have finished blooming.
- Versatile: Chrysanthemums can be used in various ways, including container gardens, borders, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Easy to Grow: They are generally low-maintenance plants that are easy to care for, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, chrysanthemums have good drought tolerance and do not require excessive watering.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial plant, Chrysanthemum 'Margaret' can provide beauty for several years with the proper care and winter protection in colder climates.
- Cultural Significance: Chrysanthemums have various cultural meanings and are used in festivals, plant shows, and as gifts, particularly in Asian countries.
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: The Chrysanthemum 'Margaret' can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on pests such as aphids, helping to naturally control garden infestations.
- Mordant in Dyeing: Petals of this plant can be used as a mordant in the natural dyeing process, by treating fibers to fix dyes to them.
- Culinary Garnish: The flower petals of Chrysanthemum 'Margaret' are edible and can be used as a garnish for salads and desserts, adding a splash of color.
- Photography: The striking colors of Chrysanthemum 'Margaret' make them ideal subjects for macro photography, thus serving as a tool for photographers looking to capture the beauty of nature.
- Symbolism in Art: This plant may be implemented in art pieces to symbolize life and rebirth, often finding a place in still-life paintings or other decorative motifs.
- Flower Arranging Competitions: Their diverse and vibrant hues make these chrysanthemums popular choices for entries in floral arranging contests.
- Eco-Friendly Confetti: Dried petals of the Chrysanthemum 'Margaret' can be used as a biodegradable confetti alternative in celebrations.
- Bookmark Decoration: Dried blooms or single petals can be laminated or pressed to create unique and decorative bookmarks.
- Fish Aquarium Decoration: The flowers can be used as an aesthetic, non-toxic addition to fish tanks, after ensuring they are free of any pesticides or harmful substances.
- Floral Baths: Petals from this plant can be strewn into bathwater for an aromatic and visually appealing bathing experience.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChrysanthemums are associated with happiness and optimism in Feng Shui. They can be placed in living areas to invite positive energy and are often used in the autumn to symbolize longevity and joy.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums have been associated with a long life due to their hardiness and ability to survive through cooler seasons.
- Rejuvenation: They bloom in the fall, when many other flowers are dying off, symbolizing the idea of revival and renewal.
- Loyalty and Devotion: In many cultures, giving a chrysanthemum to someone signifies a strong, reliable relationship and steadfastness.
- Happiness and Joy: Their bright and cheerful appearance often represents positivity and cheerfulness in life.
- Nobility: In some Asian cultures, particularly in Japan, the chrysanthemum is considered noble and is associated with the imperial family.
WaterMums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Margaret', prefer consistent moisture but do not like to be overwatered. It's best to water this plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 gallon per watering session for an average-sized plant. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water mums twice a week. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, but don't allow it to dry out completely.
LightMums thrive in full sunlight. They need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to bloom well. Place the Chrysanthemum 'Margaret' in a spot where it will receive plenty of light throughout the day, avoiding shaded areas that can lead to poor blooming and weak growth.
TemperatureMums prefer moderate temperatures and do best when daytime temperatures hover around 70°F. The Chrysanthemum 'Margaret' can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 32°F and should not be exposed to temperatures above 90°F, as extreme temperatures can damage the plant.
PruningPrune Chrysanthemum 'Margaret' in early spring to maintain a compact shape and promote bushy growth. Removing spent flowers, a process known as deadheading, encourages more blooms. The best time for pruning mums is after the risk of hard frost has passed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, with an ideal pH of 6.0 to 6.7. A mix containing peat, compost, and perlite or vermiculite can support healthy growth.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years or when they outgrow their current container, typically in spring before the onset of new growth.
Humidity & MistingThe ideal humidity level for mums is moderate, around 40-60%; they can tolerate some variation but avoid extremely dry or humid conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place mums in bright, indirect light and keep soil consistently moist.
Outdoor
Plant in a sunny spot with well-draining soil and space for air circulation.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Margaret', commonly known as the Hardy Garden Mum, begins its life as a seed or cutting, which when planted in spring or early summer, quickly germinates or roots. As temperatures rise, it enters a vegetative growth phase, producing a dense bush of foliage due to its natural inclination to branch. Throughout the summer, the plant should be pinched or pruned to encourage bushiness and more blooms. As the daylight hours shorten with the approach of autumn, the plant initiates the flowering stage, producing a profusion of blooms that can last until frost. After blooming, the Chrysanthemum 'Margaret' enters a period of dormancy through the winter; it can survive cold temperatures with appropriate mulching and care. In the following spring, the cycle begins anew as the plant emerges from dormancy, ready to grow and flower once again.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are best propagated by division, a method that is both effective and straightforward. The optimal time to divide mums is in the early spring after the new growth has begun to show, but before the plants reach a height of 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters). To propagate by division, gently dig up the established clump of mums, being careful not to damage the roots. Using a sharp knife or spade, divide the clump into smaller sections, making sure each section has a good amount of roots attached. Replant the divisions immediately, spacing them at least 18 inches (about 46 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish the root system, and you can expect to see the new plants thriving and ready to bloom in their season.
