Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Mauve Gem' (21f)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Mauve Gem', commonly referred to as just chrysanthemum, is a stunning floral plant celebrated for its vibrant and colorful display. This particular variety displays a series of beautiful blooms that are characterized by their lovely mauve hue—a subtle blend of purple and pink tones that imbue each flower with a gentle, soothing quality. The flowers themselves possess a distinctive form, commonly showcasing numerous delicate petals that radiate from the center, creating a rounded and full appearance that is often compared to a pom-pom. The petals may exhibit gradient effects, with colors transitioning softly from the outer tips to the inner base near the eye of the bloom. The foliage of the Chrysanthemum 'Mauve Gem' provides a wonderful contrast to the soft, pastel tones of the flowers. The leaves are typically deep green, featuring a textured surface that may appear serrated or lobed at the edges. These leaves cluster along the stems, creating lush, dense foliage that serves as the perfect backdrop for the floral display above. Overall, the plant exudes an aura of elegance and charm, making it a favored choice for adding a touch of color to gardens and floral arrangements alike.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mauve Gem Chrysanthemum, Mauve Gem Mum, Mauve Gem Daisy
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Mauve Gem'
ToxicityTo humans
The Chrysanthemum, known for this variety as 'Mauve Gem', can cause dermatitis in some people as a result of handling the plant due to the presence of chemicals called sesquiterpene lactones, which are found in the leaves and flowers. If ingested, it might cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, severe reactions are uncommon unless a significant amount is consumed. Always exercise caution and keep plants out of reach of small children, who might be more inclined to ingest plant parts.
To pets
Chrysanthemum, including the 'Mauve Gem' variety, is toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs, because it contains compounds called pyrethrins, which are used in insecticidal products. Ingesting any part of the plant can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to neurological symptoms like tremors, seizures, and hyperactivity. If a pet ingests Chrysanthemum, immediate veterinary attention should be sought to manage the symptoms and prevent more serious health consequences.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mauve
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- Ornamental Value: Adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its mauve-colored flowers.
- Pollinator Attraction: Invites beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies to the garden.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides color and interest in the garden during its blooming season.
- Easy Propagation: Can be easily propagated through cuttings or division, allowing gardeners to expand their collection.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has a level of drought resistance which can be ideal for xeriscaping.
- Low Maintenance: Typically requires minimal care, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Versatility: Can be used in borders, containers, or as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Cultural Significance: Often associated with cheerfulness and joy, it can enhance themed-gardens or festive arrangements.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Floral Artwork: Chrysanthemum petals can be pressed and used to create unique pieces of floral artwork.
- Natural Dyes: Petals of the Chrysanthemum can be used to produce gentle and natural dyes for fabrics or paper crafts.
- Culinary Garnish: Edible varieties of Chrysanthemum can be used as ornate garnishes for salads and desserts to add color and mild flavor.
- Plant Markers: Dried stems of Chrysanthemum can be repurposed as natural plant markers in the garden.
- Photography Subjects: Due to their vivid colors, Chrysanthemum flowers are perfect subjects for macro photography, enhancing portfolios.
- Companion Planting: Chrysanthemums can be planted alongside vegetables to help deter certain pests naturally.
- Fragrance Addition: Petals can be included in homemade potpourris or sachets to impart a subtle fragrance to rooms.
- Handmade Paper Inclusions: Chrysanthemum petals can be incorporated into papermaking to create textured, decorative handmade paper.
- Scented Candles: The flower's natural oils could potentially be used in making scented candles, providing a light floral scent.
- Craft Supplies: The dried flowers of Chrysanthemum 'Mauve Gem' can be used in various crafts, including card making and scrapbooking for decorative elements.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is said to bring happiness and laughter into the home, according to Feng Shui. Thus, placing Chrysanthemums in areas of the home where you want to boost positive energy and encourage joy would be ideal. Avoid placing them in bedrooms, as it's believed to harbor too much yang energy which can disturb sleep.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Rejuvenation: Chrysanthemums, often referred to as mums, are linked to longevity and health because they are known to bloom well into the fall and have medicinal properties in some cultures.
- Love and Affection: In some cultures, giving a chrysanthemum represents love and deep passion. Mauve Gem's soft purple hue may enhance this meaning with a suggestion of a gentle and lasting affection.
- Nobility: In places like Japan, the chrysanthemum is a noble flower, representing perfection and associated with the royal family, especially in the form of the Imperial Chrysanthemum Crest.
- Mourning and Grief: In some European countries, chrysanthemums are symbolic of death and are often used for funerals or to honor the deceased, possibly implying reverence and remembrance when Mauve Gem is presented.
- Honesty: The chrysanthemum is also often associated with honesty, perhaps due to its bold and straightforward bloom, which resonates with the virtue of telling the truth.
WaterMums require even moisture, so it's important to water Chrysanthemum 'Mauve Gem' regularly, aiming for at least 1 inch of water per week, depending on weather conditions. During hot or dry spells, water them deeply at the base to a depth of at least 6-8 inches, about two to three times a week to encourage deep root growth. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. Cut back on watering in the late fall as the plants go dormant, reducing to when the soil is dry to the touch.
LightMums thrive best in full sun conditions, which means Chrysanthemum 'Mauve Gem' should receive at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They perform well in locations that offer early morning sun, which helps dry dew on the leaves and prevent fungal diseases. A bright spot without the harsh afternoon sun is ideal for vibrant blooms.
TemperatureChrysanthemum 'Mauve Gem' prefers a temperate range and does well in temperatures between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can withstand minimum temperatures down to 32 degrees Fahrenheit, but for sustained health, they should not be exposed to extremes below this. The ideal growing conditions involve daytime temperatures of approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit and slightly cooler nights.
PruningPruning Chrysanthemum 'Mauve Gem' encourages a bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch off the tips of stems in the spring when they are about 6 inches tall, repeating every two to three weeks until mid-July. Avoid pruning in late summer or fall as this is when the plant prepares for blooming. The best time for major pruning is after the flowering season, when you can cut back the stems to prepare the plant for winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for mums, including Chrysanthemum 'Mauve Gem', is a well-draining potting mix with added compost. An ideal soil pH for mums is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingMums, such as Chrysanthemum 'Mauve Gem', should typically be repotted every one to two years or when they outgrow their current container.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemum 'Mauve Gem' thrives in moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%, similar to typical indoor conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light and ensure well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Choose sunny spot; keep soil moist but not soggy.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Mauve Gem', commonly known as the Hardy Garden Mum, begins its life cycle as a seed, which, once sown, germinates to produce tiny seedlings. These seedlings soon develop into juvenile plants with characteristic foliage, and given the appropriate seasonal conditions, they enter a vegetative growth stage where they gain size and strength. As the plant matures and environmental cues such as day length and temperature signal the onset of the flowering season, the Hardy Garden Mum transitions to the flowering stage, producing its distinctive mauve-colored flowers that attract pollinators and aid in reproduction. After pollination, the flowers develop seeds that can be dispersed, ensuring the continuity of the species. Outside of its active growing season, the plant enters a period of dormancy, especially in colder climates, where it conserves energy until favorable growth conditions return. With the arrival of spring or a return to suitable conditions, the plant emerges from dormancy, and the cycle begins anew with new growth that will eventually lead to the next flowering phase.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Mauve Gem', commonly known as mums, can be easily propagated through the division of established plants. The best time to divide mums is in the spring, after the last frost date when new growth appears, typically around late March to May depending on your local climate zone. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an existing, healthy clump and pull or cut the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has roots and shoots attached. These divisions can be immediately replanted into a well-draining soil mix, spaced at least 18 inches (45 cm) apart to allow for ample growth. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide the plants with light shade until they are established.
