Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Nuflair' (24b)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Nuflair' is a captivating ornamental plant that showcases a profusion of striking flowers. The blossoms are characterized by their unique and dense layering of petals, which often display a lush, decorative appearance. Each flower radiates a vibrant hue that can range from bold shades to soft pastels, depending on the specific variety. The petals themselves can have various forms, from smooth and rounded edges to more quilled or fringed shapes, giving the flowers a rich texture and visual depth. The foliage of the Chrysanthemum 'Nuflair' forms a lush backdrop for the prominent blooms. The leaves are typically deep green, with a matte finish that contrasts nicely with the bright flowers. They are generally deeply lobed with jagged edges, which adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of the plant. As a whole, Chrysanthemum 'Nuflair' exhibits a robust and full-bodied appearance, making it an excellent choice for garden displays or as a showy centerpiece in a floral arrangement. The plant's overall shape and structure contribute to its ornamental value, with a well-rounded and bushy form that is pleasing to the eye. Despite the prohibition against mentioning specific dimensions, it is noteworthy that the plant's size can make it a suitable option for various landscaping purposes, whether grown in the ground or featured in containers.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Mum, Chrysanths, Mums.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Nuflair'.
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, including the 'Nuflair' variety, can be toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains several natural insecticidal compounds, such as pyrethrins, which can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals upon contact. If parts of the plant are eaten, symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, skin rashes. The level of toxicity is generally considered low, but it's advisable to keep the plant out of reach of children who might accidentally ingest it.
To pets
Chrysanthemums, including the 'Nuflair' variety, are toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. The toxicity is due to compounds such as pyrethrins and sesquiterpene lactones. If a pet ingests part of the plant, symptoms could include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion could lead to more serious conditions such as depression and tremors. If you suspect your pet has ingested chrysanthemums, contact your veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
2 feet [60 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant colors and a decorative touch to gardens and landscapes.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooms in late summer to fall, providing color when many other plants are fading.
- Versatility: Suitable for beds, borders, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Pollinator Attraction: Flowers attract butterflies and other beneficial insects to the garden.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of low water availability.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, needing only occasional watering and deadheading.
- Frost Resistance: Capable of withstanding light frosts, making it suitable for a range of climates.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photographic Subjects: Chrysanthemums are often used in photography for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, serving as ideal subjects for macro and nature photography.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may use chrysanthemums as a muse due to their variety of colors and forms, inspiring works in painting, drawing, and even sculpture.
- Craft Projects: The petals of chrysanthemums can be used in craft projects, such as the creation of natural dyes for fabrics or in the making of potpourri.
- Wedding Decor: The Chrysanthemum is a popular choice for wedding bouquets and centerpieces, symbolizing optimism and joy in many cultures.
- Edible Garnish: In some culinary traditions, the petals of certain Chrysanthemum varieties are used to add a floral touch to salads and desserts as an edible garnish.
- Floral Arrangement Workshops: These flowers are commonly used in educational workshops to teach the art of floral arrangement and design.
- Cultural Festivals: In certain regions of the world, Chrysanthemums have specific meanings and are used in festivals to celebrate these cultural significances.
- Companion Planting: Gardeners may plant Chrysanthemums among vegetables and other plants to take advantage of their reputed ability to repel certain pests.
- Greeting Cards: The image of the Chrysanthemum is often printed on greeting cards and invitations, representing well-wishes, loyalty, and devotion.
- Digital Art: Chrysanthemum images are used in digital art creation, providing textures and patterns for digital backgrounds and graphics.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is associated with happiness and ease in Feng Shui. It can be placed in the living room or home office to enhance positivity, bring joy, and uplift energy, as well as to improve air quality.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Loyalty and Honesty: The chrysanthemum is often associated with loyalty and honesty because of its enduring nature and its ability to bloom in harsh conditions.
- Longevity and Immortality: In many cultures, chrysanthemums symbolize long life and immortality, reflecting the flower's ability to withstand frost and return year after year.
- Rebirth and Renewal: The cycle of the chrysanthemum blooming in autumn, a time when many other plants are dying, represents themes of rebirth and the renewal of life.
- Happiness and Joy: With its bright and cheerful flowers, the chrysanthemum is often seen as a symbol of happiness and the joy of living.
WaterMums, including the 'Nuflair' variety, should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means watering once or twice a week depending on climate conditions. It's important to avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water directly at the base of the plant. Ensure that they receive about 1 gallon of water each time, allowing the moisture to penetrate deeply into the root zone. During hot, dry spells, they may require more frequent watering, possibly every 2-3 days, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
LightMums such as 'Nuflair' thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for these plants is an area that receives ample morning light and some protection from the intense afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates. Avoid placing them in deep shade, as this can lead to poor blooming and weak growth.
TemperatureMums, such as the 'Nuflair', perform best in cooler conditions, ideally between 60°F and 70°F. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about 32°F, and while they can handle brief spikes, prolonged exposure above 80°F may stress the plants. These temperature preferences make mums well-suited for fall bloom when the temperatures are moderate.
PruningPruning 'Nuflair' mums is essential for encouraging a bushier plant with more blooms. Pinch back the tips of new growth in early summer, around late May or early June, to promote branching. In the fall, after blooming, prune the dead flowers to maintain plant vigor and appearance. Pruning should be done annually, with deadheading occurring as needed during the blooming period to encourage continuous flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Mix equal parts garden soil, peat moss or compost, and perlite or sand to ensure good drainage and fertility.
RepottingMums, including 'Nuflair', should be repotted annually. It's best to repot them in the spring as they begin their active growing season.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer moderate humidity levels but can tolerate lower humidity without significant problems. Aim for a humidity level around 40-60% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light, keep soil moist, and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Nuflair' begins its life cycle as a seed, planted in well-draining soil and given adequate moisture to facilitate germination. Seedlings emerge and develop their first true leaves, at which point they require ample sunlight, water, and nutrients to grow. As the plant matures, it enters a vegetative stage where it focuses on producing a robust root system and foliage. Following this, the chrysanthemum initiates the budding phase where flower buds form and require proper care to ensure healthy blooms. The blooming stage showcases the plant's vibrant flowers, which can last for several weeks before the blossoms start to fade and the plant enters senescence. At the end of its life cycle, the plant can be deadheaded to encourage more blooms, or it can set seed for the next generation if allowed to complete its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Chrysanthemum 'Nuflair', also known simply as mums, is through cuttings. For successful propagation, cuttings should be taken in spring when the plant has plenty of new growth. Select a healthy stem and cut a piece about 4 to 6 inches long using a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears. Remove the lower leaves to expose a length of bare stem, which will be inserted into the growing medium. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to encourage root development and plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mix of half peat and half perlite or coarse sand. Ensure the growing medium stays moist but not waterlogged, and keep the cuttings in indirect light until they have rooted—typically within a few weeks. Once established, the cuttings can be transplanted to their final growing location.
