Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Mezzo Gold' (Poppins Series)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Mezzo Gold' from the Poppins Series is a striking ornamental plant revered for its lush floral display. Its flowers are a radiant gold color that tends to draw the eye and create a warm, cheerful ambiance wherever they are planted. Each flower is composed of numerous petite petals that radiate out from a central disc, creating a full, pompom-like appearance that is characteristic of chrysanthemums. The overall shape of the blooms can be described as globular or cushion-like. The foliage of the 'Mezzo Gold' chrysanthemum is typically a deep, rich green which forms an attractive backdrop for the vivid flowers. The leaves are intricately lobed, which gives them a somewhat feathery look. This contrast of the green leaves and gold blooms makes this plant particularly eye-catching. As a member of the Poppins Series, this chrysanthemum variety is cultivated to have a neat, mounded habit, which means it tends to grow in a somewhat rounded form. This distinct shape allows for it to look especially neat and tidy in garden settings. Commonly used in garden beds, borders, and containers, the 'Mezzo Gold' chrysanthemum can be a stunning addition to a variety of outdoor spaces, lending a pop of color and visual interest to the landscape. Its showy nature makes it well-suited for fall displays and celebrations where gold hues are particularly favored.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Mum, Hardy Chrysanthemum, Mum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Mezzo Gold' (Poppins Series).
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are typically not highly toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Skin contact with the sap can also cause dermatitis in some individuals. It is generally recommended to avoid ingesting any part of the mum plant to prevent these potential adverse reactions.
To pets
Chrysanthemums, known as mums, are toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. If ingested, they can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious conditions such as depression and loss of coordination. Pet owners should keep chrysanthemums out of reach and contact a veterinarian immediately if they suspect their pet has ingested any part of the plant.
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- Enhances Garden Aesthetics - The Chrysanthemum 'Mezzo Gold' adds vibrant yellow colors and attractive shapes that can brighten any garden space.
- Easy to Grow - This variety of mums is known for being low-maintenance and easy to cultivate, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Long Blooming Period - These chrysanthemums have a long flowering season from late summer to late fall, providing extended garden interest.
- Attracts Pollinators - They are known to attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, which are important for pollination.
- Versatile Plant - Suitable for borders, containers, and as cut flowers, offering multiple uses for gardeners and florists alike.
- Drought Tolerant - Once established, these plants are relatively tolerant of short periods of drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Frost Resistant - Capable of withstanding light frosts, extending their display period even in cooler temperatures.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Edible flower garnish - The petals of Chrysanthemum can be used to add a splash of color and a unique floral flavor to salads and desserts.
- Dye for fabrics - The flowers of Chrysanthemum can be used to create a natural yellow dye for coloring textiles.
- Biological pest control - Chrysanthemum is sometimes planted in gardens to naturally repel certain insects due to its pyrethrin content.
- Art and photography subject - With its vibrant colors and intricate patterns, Chrysanthemum is a popular subject for botanical artists and photographers.
- Craft projects - Dried Chrysanthemum flowers can be used in scrapbooking, card making, and other paper crafts for added texture and visual interest.
- Bookmark creation - Pressed Chrysanthemum flowers can be laminated to create unique and beautiful bookmarks.
- Potpourri ingredient - The dried flowers can contribute to the fragrance and aesthetics of homemade potpourri mixtures.
- Soothing eye compress - Chilled Chrysanthemum petals can be used as a gentle, natural eye compress for relaxation.
- Floral water enhancer - Floating Chrysanthemum blossoms in a bowl of water can create an attractive and subtly fragrant centerpiece.
- Educational tool - Chrysanthemum can be used in schools or educational programs to teach about plant biology, life cycles, and horticulture.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui to foster happiness and bring about a sense of calm. It is often placed in the living room to enhance wellbeing and purity. In terms of color, the gold hue of 'Mezzo Gold' Chrysanthemum could be associated with wealth and prosperity.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums, often known as mums, are associated with longevity due to their robustness and ability to bloom into the colder months.
- Rebirth: Because they bloom in the fall, they symbolize the idea of rebirth and the life cycle's continuation.
- Cheerfulness: The bright and cheerful appearance of the 'Mezzo Gold' mum variety suggests optimism and joy, making it a symbol of happiness.
- Loyalty: In many cultures, mums represent loyalty and devoted love, reflecting the plant's tendency to stay blooming for a long period.
- Nobility: In some Asian cultures, the mum is a noble flower, often associated with royalty and elegance due to its refined and sophisticated look.
WaterMums, the common name for Chrysanthemum 'Mezzo Gold' (Poppins Series), prefer consistently moist soil and should be watered regularly. They should be watered deeply so that the water reaches the root zone, with about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, depending on the local weather conditions. During hot, dry spells, they may need more frequent watering, possibly every other day. It's important to avoid overhead watering to prevent foliar diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. Over-watering or allowing the mums to sit in waterlogged soil can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
LightMums thrive in full sun conditions, needing a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to promote good bloom. Ideally, they should be placed in a spot where they get the morning sun, which is less intense and helps flowers last longer. However, they can still perform well with a bit more shade, although too little light can lead to fewer flowers and a leggy growth habit.
TemperatureFor Mums, the ideal temperature range for robust growth is between 60° and 70°F. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 32°F, but frost can damage the flowers and buds. Maximum temperatures should ideally not exceed 85°F, as excessive heat can stress the plant and cause it to wilt or inhibit bud development. It's crucial to provide adequate water and potentially some afternoon shade during the hottest parts of the growing season.
PruningMums should be pruned to encourage bushier growth and more abundant blooms. Pinching or cutting off the tips of stems can be done from spring until mid-July. Stop pruning by early August to allow flower buds to form for a fall display. Pruning is typically done every two to three weeks during the growth period. The best time for pruning is when new growth reaches 4 to 6 inches tall, and each subsequent pinching should be made after a few sets of leaves have developed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChrysanthemums, including 'Mezzo Gold', thrive in well-draining soil with good fertility and a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of equal parts loam, peat moss, and perlite or vermiculite makes an excellent soil base for these plants, providing both the necessary nutrients and drainage.
RepottingChrysanthemums like 'Mezzo Gold' should be repotted every one to two years or when the plant seems root-bound. Repotting is best done in the spring just before the onset of the growing season.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemums prefer moderate humidity levels ranging from 40% to 60%. Avoid placing them in excessively dry environments which can lead to stress and poor bloom quality.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, away from drafts, water well.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, shelter from strong winds, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Chrysanthemum 'Mezzo Gold', commonly known as mums or garden chrysanthemums, begins with seed germination, which requires a warm and moist environment to sprout. Following germination, the seedling grows into a juvenile plant with a developing root system and foliage. The vegetative stage is characterized by robust growth where the plant focuses on leaf expansion and stem elongation to form its characteristic bushy shape. The reproductive phase starts when the plant matures and initiates bud formation, typically triggered by shorter day lengths in late summer to autumn. Blooming occurs, showcasing the plant's distinctive gold flowers, then pollination may take place, often with the help of insects. Finally, after flowering, the plant will either enter a period of dormancy in colder climates or it may begin senescence, completing its life cycle, potentially leaving behind seeds to give rise to the next generation.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: The Chrysanthemum 'Mezzo Gold', commonly known as mums, can be propagated most effectively through stem cuttings. To execute this method, a healthy, non-flowering shoot is selected typically in the spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. A cutting of about 4 to 6 inches long is snipped just below a leaf node, the lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then planted in a mixture of peat and perlite, or other well-draining propagation medium, and kept moist but not waterlogged. Maintaining a consistent temperature around 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (about 21 to 24 degrees Celsius) and high humidity levels will support optimum rooting, which typically occurs within a few weeks.
