Mum Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol' (29c)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol' is a visually stunning plant, known commonly as a mum. It features an abundant show of vibrant blooms that demonstrate a rich and deep color palette, often in shades of purple, red, pink, or orange, though the specific color can vary. The blooms are composed of numerous individual petals that radiate from the center, creating a full, rounded appearance that is akin to a pompon. These petals may have a variety of textures from smooth to slightly ruffled, contributing to the plant's overall fluffy and soft look. Each mum flower is set atop its own stem, which is part of a larger branching system that emerges from the base of the plant. The green foliage that accompanies the flowers is typically dense, with leaves that are deeply lobed and have a somewhat glossy surface. The leaves can provide a striking contrast to the bright flowers, highlighting them and making them stand out even more. While the fullness and shape of the plant can vary, the Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol' typically presents itself as a rounded mound, with flowers covering the upper portion and creating a dome of color. This lush appearance makes it a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts for garden beds, borders, and as a focal point in landscape design. Given proper care, this variety of mum can bloom profusely and may provide a long-lasting display of color in the fall, which is the season when mums are traditionally in their prime. The Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol' is not only a feast for the eyes but also may attract pollinators such as butterflies, adding to the liveliness of any garden space it graces.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Myss Carol Hardy Mum, Myss Carol Garden Mum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol'
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, in general, can be mildly toxic if ingested by humans. While Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol' is primarily grown for ornamental purposes and not commonly known for severe toxicity, consumption of its parts can potentially cause dermatitis, or skin irritation, due to the presence of naturally occurring chemicals like pyrethrins. If ingested, it may lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and salivation. In very rare cases and with significant quantities ingested, there can be more severe reactions. It is usually recommended to keep the plant out of reach of young children who might accidentally ingest it.
To pets
Chrysanthemums, including the 'Myss Carol' variety, are toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats. The toxic compounds in these plants are sesquiterpene lactones, pyrethrins, and other potential irritants. If a pet ingests any part of a chrysanthemum plant, they might experience symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, hyper-salivation, incoordination, or dermatitis. In severe cases, more serious symptoms such as tremors or seizures could occur. It is important to prevent pets from having access to chrysanthemums and to seek veterinary attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.
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- Ornamental Value: Adds vibrant color and aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: Typically requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for various gardeners.
- Long Blooming Period: Often has an extended flowering season providing long-lasting visual interest.
- Attracts Pollinators: Can attract beneficial insects such as butterflies and bees, supporting biodiversity.
- Versatile Usage: Suitable for use in borders, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Drought Tolerance: Certain varieties may be drought-resistant, which is beneficial in water-scarce regions.
- Cold Hardy: Some varieties can withstand cooler temperatures, extending the geographic range of cultivation.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: Chrysanthemums, with their vibrant colors and full blooms, can be used by photographers as a natural prop to enhance the beauty and depth of their photos.
- Garden Borders: 'Myss Carol' chrysanthemums can be planted as part of garden borders to provide a splash of color and structure to garden designs.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may draw inspiration from the intricate patterns and colors of the Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol' for paintings, textile designs, and other art forms.
- Craft Projects: Dried chrysanthemum flowers are often used in craft projects, such as creating bookmarks, greeting cards, or potpourri mixes.
- Educational Tool: Chrysanthemums can be used in educational settings to teach students about botany, plant life cycles, and the importance of horticulture.
- Scented Sachets: The petals of 'Myss Carol' chrysanthemums can be dried and placed in cloth sachets to create a natural, floral fragrance for drawers and closets.
- Culinary Garnish: Some chrysanthemum varieties are edible and the petals can be used to add color and a light, peppery flavor to certain dishes.
- Color Dye: Historically, certain chrysanthemum flowers have been used to produce a natural yellow or gold fabric dye.
- Plant Competitions: Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol' can be grown for plant competitions and shows, where gardeners aim to cultivate the most aesthetically pleasing or unusual specimens.
- Symbolic Gift: In some cultures, chrysanthemums are given as gifts to symbolize longevity, joy, and optimism, making them ideal for special occasions apart from their common uses.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is associated with happiness and well-being in Feng Shui. Place it in the living room or areas of the house where you want to introduce yang energy, promote good health, and attract positive chi.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums, or simply "mums," are often considered symbols of long life and immortality due to their ability to bloom into the late fall and even early winter, long after most other flowers have died.
- Rebirth and Renewal: Mums are associated with rebirth and the power to overcome adversities in life, as they often endure cold and harsh conditions to re-emerge beautifully every year.
- Happiness and Joy: The bright and vibrant hues of mums, including the 'Myss Carol' variety, symbolize happiness and bring joy to the viewer, making them a common gift in bouquets for celebrations.
- Love and Friendship: Mums can also signify deep love and lasting friendship, especially when given to a dear friend as a sign of loyalty and devoted affection.
- Peace and Relaxation: The 'Myss Carol' chrysanthemum's soothing colors and gentle appearance are believed to create a sense of calm and offer respite from life's stresses, thus symbolizing peace and relaxation.
WaterMums, such as the Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol', prefer evenly moist soil; therefore, water them thoroughly whenever the top 1 inch of soil feels dry. Typically, this may be about once a week, but adjust the frequency based on temperature and humidity. It's best to water early in the day, directing the water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to avoid wetting the foliage, which could lead to fungal diseases. Provide about 1 gallon of water per watering session, ensuring you moisten the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches. Always check the soil before watering to avoid overwatering and ensure the pot has good drainage.
LightMums thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least six hours of direct sun daily, so place Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol' in a spot where it can receive ample sunlight. An east or south-facing location works best for these plants. They can tolerate light shade, especially in hotter regions, but their blooms might be less abundant.
TemperatureMums are best kept within the temperature range of 60-70°F for optimal growth. Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol' can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 32°F for short periods and a maximum temperature up to 90°F, although prolonged exposure to extremes can be harmful. The ideal growing conditions would involve providing protection from harsh winter freezes and extreme summer heat.
PruningPruning encourages bushier growth and prevents the mum from becoming leggy. For Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol', pinch back the tips of the stems in early summer, which will stimulate side branching and lead to a fuller plant with more blooms. Cut back the spent flowers after blooming to maintain plant vigor. The best time for major pruning is in the spring as new growth appears.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums, like Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol', thrive in well-draining soil with a mix of peat, perlite, and loam. An ideal pH level for mums is between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingChrysanthemum ‘Myss Carol’ should be repotted once a year, ideally in the early spring before the growing season begins.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer moderate to high humidity levels, around 40-60%, which can be maintained in an indoor environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and well-draining soil for mums indoors.
Outdoor
Plant mums in sun, rich soil, and provide moderate water.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol', commonly known as mums, begins with the germination of seeds planted in well-draining soil with adequate sunlight, usually in the spring. Seedlings emerge and develop into young plants with a rosette of leaves close to the soil surface. As the plants mature, they develop sturdy stems and a bushy form, with leaves becoming lush and green, if provided with proper care, including regular watering and fertilization. In late summer to fall, the mums enter the blooming stage, producing a profusion of flowers that range in color, with 'Myss Carol' typically showcasing bright, decorative blooms. After flowering, mums enter a period of dormancy during the winter, where they die back to the ground in colder climates, or they may persist as perennials in milder regions. In the following spring, if the roots have survived, new growth begins again completing the cycle, or gardeners often propagate Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol' through cuttings or division to maintain their gardens.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Myss Carol', commonly known as mum, can be successfully propagated using the cuttings method, which is considered one of the most popular methods. The best time to take cuttings for propagation is in the spring as the plants begin to grow actively. To propagate mums by cuttings, a gardener should choose a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a 4 to 6-inch (10 to 15 cm) length, making sure to include at least two or three sets of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end of the stem is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that at least one set of leaves is above the soil surface. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy to prevent rotting. With the right conditions, including warmth and indirect light, roots will form within a few weeks, after which the new chrysanthemum plants can be transplanted to a permanent location.
