Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Okura Red'
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Okura Red' is a stunning ornamental plant, renowned for its vibrant and eye-catching flowers. The most recognizable feature of this plant is its rich, deep red blooms that stand out with a certain luxuriance. These blossoms are composed of numerous small petals that are densely packed together, creating a pompom-like effect that is both lush and elegant. The individual flowers are quite striking, and they form a sharp contrast with the dark green foliage. The leaves of the Chrysanthemum 'Okura Red' have a distinct shape, with edges that can be toothed or slightly lobed, offering a textured appearance that complements the smoothness of the petals. The overall impression of the Chrysanthemum 'Okura Red' is one of opulence and vividness, with its flowers providing a powerful splash of color that can enliven any setting. It is popular in gardens and arrangements alike for its visual impact and the grace with which it enhances its surroundings. This plant has a well-branched structure, allowing for multiple flower heads to bloom simultaneously, resulting in a full and abundant display of red that is both luxurious and captivating.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Mum, Chrysanthemum, Hardy Chrysanthemum, Garden Mum.
Common names
Dendranthema grandiflorum, Chrysanthemum grandiflorum, Chrysanthemum morifolium, Dendranthema morifolium, Ajania pacifica.
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are generally considered to have low toxicity for humans. However, if ingested in large quantities, they can cause irritation in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and salivation. People with a sensitivity to the plant may also develop dermatitis upon contact with the foliage and flowers. It is important to handle them with care to avoid any potential allergic reactions.
To pets
Mums are toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. If a pet ingests any part of the plant, they may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious conditions such as depression and a loss of appetite. Pets that consume mums should be taken to a veterinarian for proper evaluation and treatment.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
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: Adds a splash of vibrant red to gardens and landscapes.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooms in the fall, providing color when many other plants are fading.
- Attracts Pollinators: Invites beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Easy to Grow: Adaptable to a variety of soils, making it suitable for many gardeners.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of low water, making it a water-wise choice.
- Versatile: Suitable for beds, borders, and container gardening.
- Maintenance: Generally low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established.
- Cut Flowers: Excellent for creating floral arrangements, with long-lasting blooms.
- Cultural Significance: Often used in festivals and ceremonies, especially in Asian cultures.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Companion Planting: Chrysanthemums can be planted near vegetables to help deter pests with their strong fragrance.
- Natural Dye: The petals of chrysanthemum flowers can be used to produce a natural red dye for fabrics or crafts.
- Biological Insecticide: Chrysanthemum extract, specifically pyrethrins derived from the flowers, can act as a natural insecticide in organic farming.
- Fish Poison: Historically, some chrysanthemum species were used to poison water systems to stun or kill fish, a practice that is ecologically harmful and now illegal in many places.
- Garden Aesthetics: Chrysanthemum flowers are often used in ornamental garden displays and landscape design due to their vibrant colors and abundant blooms.
- Floral Arrangements: They make for long-lasting cut flowers in bouquets and floral arrangements, with a wide variety of colors and forms.
- Culinary Garnish: Edible varieties of chrysanthemums can be used to adorn and add a unique flavor to certain dishes, especially in Asian cuisine.
- Symbolism and Festivity: In various cultures, chrysanthemums are used in festivals and as symbols in art, representing longevity and rejuvenation.
- Photography Subjects: Their bright, bold red hues make them popular subjects for photographers looking to capture the beauty of nature.
- Education and Research: As a model organism, chrysanthemums can be studied by botanists and horticulturists to understand plant growth, flowering patterns, and hybridization techniques.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChrysanthemums, often called mums, are associated with happiness and well-being in Feng Shui. The 'Okura Red' variety, with its vibrant red flowers, can be used to introduce fiery yang energy that symbolizes joy and passion. According to Feng Shui principles, placing red mums in the south sector of a home or garden can enhance fame and reputation, while in the center of a space they can promote good health and longevity.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and well-being, partly due to their hardy nature.
- Rejuvenation: The cycle of the chrysanthemum, which blooms in the fall, symbolizes rebirth and the power of life to renew itself.
- Loyalty and Devotion: In many cultures, presenting a chrysanthemum to a person is a gesture of faithful love and steadfastness.
- Nobility: In some Asian cultures, the chrysanthemum is a symbol of royalty and elegance due to its role in noble emblems and crests.
- Death and Grieving: In several European countries, chrysanthemums are symbolic of death and are used to honor the deceased, particularly on All Saints' Day.
WaterMums, including the 'Okura Red' chrysanthemum, should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this might mean watering once or twice a week, but the frequency can vary based on climate and weather conditions. It's important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Each watering should provide enough water to soak the roots, which might be approximately one gallon for established plants in the ground. During hot, dry spells, they may require more frequent watering, and less during cooler, wet periods.
LightMums prefer full sun conditions, meaning the 'Okura Red' chrysanthemum should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for these plants would be an area that is sunny for most of the day, but they can tolerate light afternoon shade. Avoid placing them in deep shade, as this can result in weak growth and fewer flowers.
TemperatureThe 'Okura Red' chrysanthemum thrives in a range of temperatures but prefers a moderate climate. Mums can survive short periods of cold down to about 20°F, but they grow best when temperatures are between 55°F and 75°F. They are not tolerant of extreme heat and can be damaged by temperatures over 90°F for prolonged periods.
PruningPruning 'Okura Red' mums encourages a bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch off the tips of the stems in early summer, and then do so again around mid-summer. Prune any spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Regular pruning every year, typically just after the first burst of growth, will help maintain the plant's shape and vigor.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums prefer a rich, well-draining soil mix with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A good mix would be equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or vermiculite to enhance drainage and aeration. Regularly adding organic matter like compost can also promote healthy growth.
RepottingMums should be repotted every 1 to 2 years to prevent root crowding and replenish nutrients. The best time to repot is in the spring after the last frost when the plant starts to show new growth.
Humidity & MistingMums thrive in moderate humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%. They don't require exceptionally high humidity but should not be in very dry environments for prolonged periods as this can cause stress to the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place mums in bright indirect light; avoid drafts and overheating.
Outdoor
Plant mums in full sun to partial shade, water, and fertilize regularly.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Okura Red', commonly known as the Hardy Mum, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in spring after the last frost, or when cuttings are rooted. Seedlings or cuttings grow rapidly in favorable conditions of sunlight and well-draining soil, developing a bushy foliage. By late summer, the Hardy Mum enters the budding stage, where flower buds begin to form as daylight hours decrease. In autumn, the plant reaches full bloom, showcasing vibrant red flowers that attract pollinators. After flowering, the plant sets seeds, which are dispersed by wind or animals, or it can be propagated through cuttings for the next growing season. In winter, the Hardy Mum becomes dormant, with its above-ground parts dying back after frost, while the root system remains alive to restart the cycle in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: The Chrysanthemum 'Okura Red', commonly known as mums, is typically propagated through the division of mature plants. For best results, this process is commonly undertaken in the spring after the last frost when the plants start to show new growth. Dividing mums involves gently separating the root ball of an established plant into smaller sections, making sure that each section has a good amount of roots and a few shoots. These divisions can then be replanted in well-draining soil with ample sunlight. Care should be taken to water the new plants regularly to help them establish, but be careful to not overwater, as mums prefer drier conditions. Proper care and maintenance after division will ensure that these vibrant red flowers continue to flourish season after season.
