Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Max Riley' (23b)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Max Riley,' commonly known as the mum, is a flowering ornamental plant that displays a vibrant and attractive appearance. It is characterized by its lush green foliage, which forms a dense backdrop for its flowers. The leaves are typically deeply lobed, giving them a textured and rich appearance. The standout feature of the 'Max Riley' cultivar is its blooms, which present a captivating display of color and form. The flowers of this mum are composed of numerous petals that radiate from the center, creating a full and rounded bloom. The petals may have a spoon-like shape, curling under at the edges, and are known for their velvety texture. They are tightly packed, contributing to the overall pompon appearance of the flowerhead. In terms of color, these mums can feature a strikingly vibrant shade that catches the eye. The hue may be a saturated and pure color, which adds a pop of brightness to gardens and displays. The contrast between the dark green leaves and the vivid color of the blooms makes the 'Max Riley' mum a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a burst of color to their floral arrangements. Overall, the Chrysanthemum 'Max Riley' is prized for its showy flowers that bloom profusely. Although the size of the plant is not to be detailed, the flowers typically make a significant impact due to their prolific nature and standout color. This ornamental plant is often used in borders, as a feature in floral displays, or simply enjoyed for its ornate beauty in various garden settings.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Max Riley Chrysanthemum, Mum, Hardy Chrysanthemum, Garden Mum, Decorative Mum.
Common names
Dendranthema 'Max Riley', Leucanthemum 'Max Riley'.
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, can be irritating if ingested, causing symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and salivation. Dermatitis may occur if there's skin contact with the plant. It is recommended to handle them with care to avoid any potential skin irritation.
To pets
Mums are considered toxic to pets; ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis in animals. Cats may also experience additional symptoms such as difficulty breathing. If a pet ingests mums, it is essential to seek veterinary care promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
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- Aesthetic Appeal: Chrysanthemums, including the 'Max Riley' variety, are popular for their beautiful and diverse flower forms and colors, which can enhance the visual attractiveness of gardens and landscapes.
- Extended Blooming Season: Chrysanthemums have a long flowering season, often blooming from late summer until the onset of winter, providing color when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Ease of Cultivation: Chrysanthemums are known for being relatively easy to grow, requiring minimal maintenance, which makes them suitable for both experienced and novice gardeners.
- Variety of Uses: They are versatile in use, suitable for flower beds, borders, container gardening, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Pollinator Attraction: Chrysanthemums can attract an array of pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which can benefit the pollination of surrounding plants and contribute to the overall health of the garden ecosystem.
- Seasonal Festivity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with autumn and are used in seasonal displays and celebrations, contributing to holiday and festive decorations.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Subject: The Chrysanthemum 'Max Riley' can be used as a subject for macro and nature photography due to its intricate details and vibrant colors.
- Art Inspiration: Artists may draw inspiration from the intricate petals and color patterns for paintings, drawings, or textile designs.
- Dye Source: The petals of the chrysanthemum can be used to create natural dyes for fabric or art projects.
- Decoration: Dried chrysanthemum flowers can be used in potpourri or as part of a decorative dried flower arrangement.
- Culinary Garnish: Fresh or dried petals can be used as an edible garnish on salads or desserts for an extra touch of color.
- Bookmarks: Dried chrysanthemum petals or whole flowers can be laminated and used as decorative bookmarks.
- Plant Studies: Botany students or enthusiasts may use the Chrysanthemum 'Max Riley' for plant structure studies and genetics because of its specific hybrid characteristics.
- Floral Crafts: The flowers can be used in making handmade greeting cards or scrapbooking embellishments.
- Gift Wrapping: Petals or small sprigs of chrysanthemum can be incorporated into gift wrapping for an elegant and natural touch.
- Biodegradable Confetti: Petals can be used as biodegradable confetti for events or weddings in place of synthetic materials.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is known in Feng Shui to symbolize longevity and joy. It is used to bring positive energy, or chi, into the home. To incorporate a Chrysanthemum plant into Feng Shui practice, position it in areas that require energetic purification and uplift, such as the living room, to encourage a joyful and harmonious atmosphere. Avoid placing the plant in the bedroom, as it can introduce too much yang energy, which could disturb sleep.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Loyalty: In many cultures, chrysanthemums are given to signify trustworthiness and fidelity.
- Longevity: Because they bloom well into the autumn, chrysanthemums are often associated with a long life.
- Honor: In some Asian cultures, the chrysanthemum is a noble flower, representing honesty and a high esteem.
- Death: In Europe, chrysanthemums are often laid on graves and symbolize death or mourning.
- Rebirth: Their ability to bloom in the fall is also symbolic of rebirth and the cycle of life.
- Love: A red chrysanthemum is a symbol of love and a declaration of romantic intent.
- Friendship: A general symbol for friendship, the chrysanthemum denotes well-wishing and supportive relationships.
- Joy: Often given as gifts to convey joy and optimism, particularly yellow chrysanthemums.
WaterThe Chrysanthemum, commonly known as mums, including the 'Max Riley' variety, should be watered consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Typically, watering once a week with about 1 gallon of water per plant is sufficient, but this may vary depending on climate conditions, especially during hot or dry spells when more frequent watering may be necessary. It's crucial to water the base of the plant rather than the foliage to minimize the risk of disease. During the winter dormancy, water less frequently, just enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out.
LightMums thrive in full sunlight, which means at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day is ideal for the 'Max Riley' variety. They perform best when placed in a location that receives morning light and some protection from the intense afternoon sun, particularly in hotter climates. Mums can tolerate partial shade, but flowering may be reduced in less than optimal light conditions.
TemperatureMums like 'Max Riley' prefer a temperature range between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during their growing season, but can survive temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit in winter dormancy. The ideal growing conditions to promote blooming are cool nights and warmer days. Avoid exposure to temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit as heat can stress the plant and affect flower formation.
PruningPruning mums like 'Max Riley' is essential for promoting a bushier growth and abundant flowering. Pinch off the tips of the stems in early spring when they are about 6 inches tall and continue to do so until midsummer to encourage branching. The best time to perform heavy pruning is after the flowering season, cutting back the plant to about 8 inches to prepare it for winter and ensure vigorous growth next season. Pruning should not be done late in the fall as this can harm the plant’s ability to withstand winter temperatures.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for growing the Chrysanthemum 'Max Riley', commonly known as garden mum, is a well-draining potting mix with organic matter such as compost or peat moss. A soil pH around 6.5 is optimal for garden mums.
RepottingGarden mums like Chrysanthemum 'Max Riley' should be repotted annually to provide fresh soil and encourage healthy growth, ideally in the spring before the onset of the growing season.
Humidity & MistingGarden mums thrive in moderate humidity levels around 40-60%, which mimic their natural environment. Avoid overly dry or extremely humid conditions to maintain plant health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place garden mums in bright, indirect light.
Outdoor
Plant garden mums in full sun with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Max Riley', commonly known as mums, begins its life as a seed or cutting, where it germinates or roots in a suitable potting mix with warmth and moisture, developing into a young plant. The vegetative stage follows, characterized by robust leaf and stem growth, as it's important for mums to establish a strong vegetative framework before flowering. As the plant matures and environmental cues such as shorter day lengths trigger the onset of the reproductive stage, bud formation occurs, leading to the blossoming of its hallmark flowers, which come in various colors. After pollination, which may involve insects or wind, seeds develop, ensuring the potential for the next generation of plants. If not deadheaded, the flowers will eventually wilt, and the plant will enter a phase of dormancy, particularly in temperate climates, where it conserves energy for the next growing season. Through proper care and sometimes division, Chrysanthemum 'Max Riley' can be rejuvenated after dormancy to start the cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Max Riley', commonly known as mums, can typically be propagated through a process called division. The optimal time to do this is in the spring when new growth begins to emerge. During division, the gardener would dig up the entire mum plant, ensuring a good clump of roots with attached soil is maintained. Using a sharp spade or knife, the plant is carefully split into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. These divisions are then replanted at the same depth they were growing previously, spaced approximately 18 to 24 inches apart (45-60 cm). The soil should be well-watering after replanting to encourage root establishment. This method of propagation helps maintain the health and vigor of the plant while also providing new plants to expand the garden or share with fellow gardeners.
