Garden Mum Chrysanthemum 'Nakato Pink' (PBR)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Nakato Pink' is a variety that presents itself with an alluring display of pink flowers. These blooms are characterized by their decorative pompom-like shape, boasting layers upon layers of delicate petals that unfurl from the center, creating a dense and intricate floral display. The hue of the petals is a soft, pastel pink that may have varying shades, radiating a gentle and soothing visual appeal. The foliage is typically a rich green, providing a lush contrast to the vibrant pink blossoms. This particular variety emanates a sense of elegance and softness, often cultivated for its ornamental value and its ability to infuse a pop of color into gardens and decorative arrangements.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Nakato Pink Chrysanthemum, Pink Garden Mum, Pink Florist's Daisy.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Nakato Pink' (PBR)
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums are generally considered to have low toxicity for humans. However, some people might experience allergic reactions or dermatitis after handling the plant or its flowers due to the presence of natural compounds, such as sesquiterpene lactones. If ingested, they can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting, nausea, or diarrhea. It is advisable to keep plants away from small children who might ingest the flowers or leaves out of curiosity.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. The plant contains pyrethrins, which can lead to symptoms of poisoning if ingested. These symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, incoordination, and lethargy. In severe cases, tremors or seizures might occur. It is important to prevent pets from accessing chrysanthemums and to seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect your pet has consumed any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Beautification: Adds vibrant shades of pink to gardens and landscapes, enhancing aesthetic appeal.
- Ease of Care: Tolerant to various growing conditions, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems and benefiting biodiversity.
- Long Blooming: Offers a prolonged flowering period which ensures a lasting display of color.
- Versatility: Can be grown in containers, borders, and as cut flowers, providing flexible gardening options.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for drier climates or water-wise gardens.
- Cold Tolerance: Capable of surviving in cooler climates, extending the range of where it can be cultivated.
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, are often used as a beautiful backdrop or subject in floral photography.
- Edible Garnish: The petals of some Chrysanthemum varieties may be used as a colorful garnish for salads and desserts, although it's essential to ensure they are free from pesticides and suitable for consumption.
- Natural Fabric Dye: The flowers can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of colors from soft pinks to deep reds depending on the mordant used.
- Teaching Tool: In botany classes, Chrysanthemums can be used to demonstrate plant anatomy and reproductive processes.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may use these flowers as inspiration for paintings, sculptures, and other forms of artwork.
- Special Events Decor: They serve as excellent decorations for weddings, parties, and other special events due to their lush appearance and variety of colors.
- Garden Pest Control: Chrysanthemums contain a natural insect repellent called pyrethrin, which can be useful in gardens to keep certain pests away.
- Plant Companion: Some gardeners use Chrysanthemums as companion plants, believing they help deter pests from vegetables and other flowers.
- Candle Making: The petals can be incorporated into the wax to create decorative, aromatic candles.
- Traditional Crafts: In some cultures, the flowers are used in the making of traditional handicrafts, such as pressed flower art or floral arrangements.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is often used in Feng Shui to promote happiness and a life of ease. Displayed in the living room, it is believed to bring good fortune and joy, while in the bedroom, it can foster a soothing energy conducive to relaxation.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums have been associated with longevity and immortality due to their hardy nature and ability to bloom well into the fall, long after other flowers have faded.
- Rebirth: They bloom in the fall, which is often a time associated with the end of cycles. Their blooming represents the cycle of life and rebirth.
- Love and Affection: In some cultures, the chrysanthemum is given as a gift to express love and deep passion towards the recipient.
- Loyalty: Their lasting nature is also seen as a symbol of loyalty and devotion, both in friendship and romantic relationships.
- Nobility: In some Eastern cultures, the chrysanthemum is considered a noble flower, often associated with royalty and elegance.
- Healing and rejuvenation: They are sometimes used in traditional medicines, symbolizing their healing properties.
- Grief and Mourning: In some parts of Europe, chrysanthemums are a common flower for graves and are used to honor the deceased.
WaterMums, including the 'Nakato Pink' variety, prefer evenly moist soil and should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. The frequency of watering will largely depend on environmental conditions, but generally, mums need watering once or twice a week. A good method is to provide deep watering which encourages deeper root growth. Water at the base to avoid wetting the foliage which can lead to disease. An established plant typically requires approximately 1 gallon of water per week under normal conditions, but this may need to be increased during particularly hot or dry periods.
LightMums, such as 'Nakato Pink', thrive in full sunlight, which means they should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. The best spot for a mum plant is in a location where it will get plenty of morning light and some protection from the intense afternoon sun, if possible. Avoid planting mums in deep shade as this can lead to weak growth and fewer blooms.
TemperatureMums, like the 'Nakato Pink', prefer moderate temperatures and do best when daytime temperatures are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can generally tolerate temperatures as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit for short periods and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit as long as they are not prolonged. Mums are hardy to a certain extent but should be protected from extreme cold with mulch or by bringing potted plants indoors.
PruningMums, such as 'Nakato Pink', should be pruned to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess. Pinch back the tips of the stems in late spring to early summer, stopping around July to allow flower buds to form. Pruning can also help remove spent blooms and dead foliage, promoting healthier plants and possibly a second bloom. The best time for major pruning is early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums prefer well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. A good mix can be created using equal parts peat, perlite, and loam, along with compost to nourish the plants. The ideal soil pH for chrysanthemums, including 'Nakato Pink', should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.5 to 6.7.
RepottingChrysanthemums should be repotted every one to two years, preferably in the spring. 'Nakato Pink' mums benefit from repotting when they become root-bound or when the soil is exhausted, to ensure they have enough space and nutrients to continue growing well.
Humidity & MistingMums like 'Nakato Pink' thrive at moderate humidity levels. Aim for humidity in the range of 40-60% to keep your plants healthy without encouraging fungal diseases that can occur if the air is too moist.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Nakato Pink' mums in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant 'Nakato Pink' mums in full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Nakato Pink' (PBR) begins its life cycle as a seed or more commonly as a vegetative cutting, which is planted in well-draining soil and encouraged to root. As the plant grows, it develops a bushy structure with leaves and begins the vegetative stage, where it focuses on accumulating size and strength. As the plant matures and environmental conditions become favorable, usually in cooler months with shorter day lengths, it enters the budding phase where flower buds start to form. This is followed by the flowering stage, where the distinctive pink blooms open and can last for several weeks, attracting pollinators and adding aesthetic value. After the flowering phase, the plant enters senescence, where the flowers wilt and the plant begins to die back, especially if exposed to frost or extreme cold. However, in cultivation, growers will often propagate new plants from cuttings before senescence to maintain a continuous cycle of growth and blooming.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating the Chrysanthemum 'Nakato Pink', commonly known as mums, is through cuttings. This is typically carried out in spring when the plants start to grow vigorously. To propagate through cuttings, select healthy stems approximately 6 inches (15 centimeters) long and snip them just below a leaf node with a clean, sharp pair of scissors or secateurs. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone before placing it in a moist potting mix. To create a humid environment, you may cover the pot with a plastic bag, ensuring it does not touch the leaves. The cutting should be kept in a warm spot with indirect light and the soil should be kept consistently moist. Roots usually develop within 2 to 4 weeks, after which the new plants can be transplanted into individual pots or into the garden.
