Mum Chrysanthemum 'Matinee'
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Matinee', also commonly known as the mum, is distinguished by its lush and vibrant blooms. The flowers of this particular cultivar typically showcase an impressive array of colors, often comprising of various shades that may range from deep reds to bright yellows, pinks, purples, and whites. Each bloom comprises numerous petals that are densely packed together, radiating from the center and sometimes exhibiting a gradient of color that gives them a dynamic and striking appearance. The petals can have different forms; they might be elongated and spoon-shaped or more traditionally daisy-like with a quilled or fringed look, offering a textured and layered visual effect. The foliage of the mum is equally attractive, with deep green leaves that have a slightly serrated edge, giving the plant a lush, full-bodied presence. Bearing numerous flowers, the Chrysanthemum 'Matinee' typically has a robust branching structure that supports the multitude of blooms. The overall look is one of a vibrant and generously flowering plant that can serve as a focal point in any garden display or as a showy container specimen. It is popular not only for its aesthetic attributes but also for its potential to bring a splash of color to gardens and living spaces during the blooming season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mum, Chrysanthemum
Common names
Dendranthema 'Matinee', Leucanthemum 'Matinee'
ToxicityTo humans
The Chrysanthemum, commonly known as mum, has a low level of toxicity to humans. If ingested, it can cause irritation of the mouth, stomach upset, and in some rare cases, a mild allergic reaction. Generally, the symptoms are not severe, but if a large amount of the plant is consumed, or if an individual has a specific sensitivity, medical attention should be sought.
To pets
The Chrysanthemum, known to pet owners as mum, is toxic to pets like dogs and cats. If ingested, it can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In cases of significant ingestion, the symptoms could be more severe. If you suspect your pet has consumed this plant, it is important to consult a veterinarian promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Chrysanthemum 'Matinee', commonly known as mum, has vibrant floral displays that enhance the beauty of any garden or landscape.
- Variety of Colors: Mums come in a wide range of colors, allowing gardeners to design colorful landscapes or floral arrangements.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooming in late summer to fall, mums provide color and interest during a time when many other plants are winding down for the year.
- Easy to Grow: Mums are known for being low-maintenance and easy to care for, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, mums have a good tolerance for short periods of drought, reducing the need for constant watering.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of mums attract bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollination in the garden.
- Adaptability: Mums can be grown in containers, borders, or as a ground cover, offering versatility in garden design.
- Frost Resistance: Chrysanthemum 'Matinee' can withstand light frosts, often continuing to bloom after other annuals have faded.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural dye: The petals of the chrysanthemum can be used to produce a natural yellow dye for fabrics, yarns, and crafts.
- Biological pest control: Chrysanthemum plants can help manage harmful insect populations as they can be a source of pyrethrins, which are natural insecticides.
- Culinary garnish: Edible chrysanthemum varieties can be used as a colorful and decorative garnish on salads and other dishes.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists may use the intricate form and variety of colors of chrysanthemum blooms as inspiration for paintings, drawings, and textile designs.
- Photography subject: The chrysanthemum, with its diverse and elaborate blooms, is a popular subject for photographers practicing close-up and macro photography.
- Floral arrangements: Beyond their common use in gardens and cut flower arrangements, chrysanthemums can provide structure and support to more complex floral designs due to their sturdy stems and voluminous blooms.
- Meditation and mindfulness: Observing or tending to a chrysanthemum plant can be used as a practice in mindfulness, promoting calm and relaxation.
- Special events and ceremonies: Chrysanthemums are often used in festivals and cultural ceremonies around the world, symbolizing different things in various cultures, from happiness and longevity to grief and mourning.
- Fragrance extraction: Although not typically known for their scent, some varieties of chrysanthemums can be used to extract essential oils for use in perfumery or aromatherapy.
- Companion planting: Chrysanthemums can be planted alongside certain crops to deter pests naturally due to their pest-repellent properties.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is associated with happiness and well-being in Feng Shui. Place Chrysanthemums in the living room or other spaces where you want to introduce yang energy and promote good health. Their bright flowers can help uplift the energy and create a sense of balance. Avoid placing them in bedrooms, as active energy can disrupt relaxation and sleep.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Health: Chrysanthemums are often associated with longevity and health due to their hardy nature and medicinal properties in some cultures.
- Loyalty and Devotion: The chrysanthemum symbolizes loyalty and devoted love, often used to represent the strong bond between friends or family members.
- Happiness and Joy: Their bright and cheerful appearance makes chrysanthemums a symbol of happiness and joy in various cultures.
- Rebirth and Renewal: The chrysanthemum can also symbolize rebirth and new beginnings, with its flowering in the fall representing the cycle of life.
- Nobility: In some Asian cultures, the chrysanthemum is considered a noble flower, often associated with royalty and elegance.
WaterMums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Matinee', prefer steady moisture and should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. On average, this might result in watering once every week, but this can vary depending on weather conditions and indoor climates. Provide about one gallon of water per watering session for an average-sized plant, ensuring that the excess water drains out of the pot to avoid waterlogging. It's best to water these plants in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall, reducing the risk of disease.
LightMums thrive in bright indirect light, so the Chrysanthemum 'Matinee' would do well in a location that receives morning sun and shaded afternoon light or a spot with strong, filtered light all day. Avoiding direct harsh afternoon sunlight will prevent the leaves from scorching. A spot near an east-facing or west-facing window is typically ideal for these plants.
TemperatureThe Chrysanthemum 'Matinee' prefers a temperature range of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and slightly cooler at night, but it can tolerate temperatures as low as 32 degrees and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. To encourage blooming, keep mums in an area with night temperatures around 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning mums including the Chrysanthemum 'Matinee' is important to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch back the tips of each stem by about an inch when the plants are 6-8 inches tall, repeating the process every two to three weeks until midsummer. This practice creates a denser plant with more flowers. Prune again after blooming to remove old flower heads and maintain plant health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for mums, such as the Chrysanthemum 'Matinee', is a well-draining mix composed of equal parts peat, perlite, and loam. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 to 7.0, to support optimal growth and flowering.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years, typically in the spring. The Chrysanthemum 'Matinee' benefits from fresh soil to replenish nutrients and to prevent root crowding in the pot.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer moderate humidity levels. The Chrysanthemum 'Matinee' thrives best with a humidity level around 60%, which is typical of indoor environments and does not require special humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place mums in bright indirect light and ensure well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant mums in a sunny spot with rich, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Matinee', commonly known as the Hardy Chrysanthemum, begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically occurring in the warmth of late spring or early summer. After sprouting, the seedling grows into a vegetative state where it develops a robust root system and foliage. As the plant matures, it enters the budding stage, where flower buds start to appear. The flowering stage follows, with blooms typically dazzling in hues of yellow, red, pink, or white during late summer to fall, attracting pollinators. After pollination, the plant sets seeds, which disperse to give rise to new plants, completing the reproductive cycle. The Hardy Chrysanthemum then enters a period of dormancy during the cold winter months, only to rejuvenate and restart the cycle with the arrival of the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Chrysanthemum 'Matinee', commonly known as Mum, is most effectively propagated through division, which is best performed in the early spring. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, ensuring the root ball is intact. Wash or shake off excess soil so that the root system is visible. Using a sharp knife or spade, divide the root ball into sections, each containing several shoots and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing at previously, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly to encourage root establishment. This method of propagation helps to rejuvenate older plants and is an easy way to create new plants that will bloom reliably in the following season.
