Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Peak Glow'
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Peak Glow' is known for its vibrant and showy flowers. The blooms of this plant are typically a radiant pink, with petals that radiate outwards from a central disc. The petals may have slightly lighter or darker shades, creating a beautiful gradient effect that enhances the overall appeal. Each flower head is composed of numerous individual petals that are arranged in a layered, overlapping pattern which adds depth and volume to the bloom. The central disc of the flowers is usually a contrasting color, such as yellow or green, which creates a striking focal point. The foliage of 'Peak Glow' consists of dark green leaves that have a slightly serrated edge, giving them a textured look. Leaves are often dense and provide a lush backdrop for the bright flowers. The plant has a bushy appearance with stems that support the flower heads and give the overall appearance of a burst of color and vitality. During the blooming season, 'Peak Glow' becomes a centerpiece in gardens due to its vivid coloring and abundances of flowers. The plant is favored not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its ability to attract pollinators like butterflies and bees, which find the flowers irresistible.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mum, Chrysanthemum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Peak Glow'.
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, typically have low toxicity for humans. However, they can cause dermatitis in some individuals with sensitive skin if they come into contact with the plant's sap. Ingesting parts of the plant may result in gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in some individuals. It is advisable to keep mums out of reach of children who might ingest them out of curiosity.
To pets
Mums can be toxic to pets, such as cats and dogs, if ingested. The symptoms of poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, the ingestion of mums might lead to more serious conditions like depression or signs of systemic illness. Therefore, pet owners should keep these flowers away from their animals to prevent accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
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- Decorative Appeal: Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are widely recognized for their bright and cheerful flowers that come in various colors, adding aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Extended Blooming Season: 'Peak Glow' chrysanthemums have a long flowering period that extends into late fall, providing color and interest during a time when many other plants have ceased blooming.
- Pollinator-Friendly: Mums are attractive to bees and butterflies, which are important pollinators for many plants and crops.
- Easy to Grow: Mums are generally low-maintenance and can thrive with basic care, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, these plants can tolerate periods of low water, thus reducing the need for frequent irrigation.
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 like 'Peak Glow' are often used in floral photography for their vivid colors and intricate petal formations.
- Fish tank decoration - After ensuring they're free of pests and chemicals, some aquarium enthusiasts may use dried chrysanthemum flowers as a natural decoration in fish tanks.
- Culinary garnish - Edible varieties of chrysanthemums can be used as colorful and attractive garnishes on dishes, primarily in fine dining experiences.
- Art supplies - The petals of the Chrysanthemum can be pressed and used in creating botanical art, such as for handmade paper or bookmarks.
- Dye source - The petals can be boiled to create a natural dye for fabrics or paper, adding a subtle floral hue.
- Special events - 'Peak Glow' Chrysanthemums can be released on water surfaces during events like weddings or memorials for a floating floral display.
- Holiday decorations - The 'Peak Glow' variety with its bright colors can be used in festive arrangements for holidays like Thanksgiving or Halloween.
- Perfumery - While not a common use, the scent extracted from chrysanthemum flowers can be used in crafting homemade perfumes.
- Teaching tool - Chrysanthemums can be used by educators to teach botany and horticulture, exploring plant biology and hybridization.
- Seed harvesting - Enthusiasts may cultivate 'Peak Glow' Chrysanthemums for collecting seeds to trade with other gardeners or to preserve the cultivar.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui to promote happiness and well-being, as well as to purify the air. Placing Chrysanthemums in the living room or other areas of frequent use can introduce positive energy, vitality, and joy. According to Feng Shui, the color of the Chrysanthemum should also be considered; yellow ones are believed to increase the feeling of warmth and ease in social situations.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are associated with long life and well-being, making them a common gift in various cultures to wish someone health and longevity.
- Loyalty and Devotion: The robust nature and the way chrysanthemums bloom with many petals represents fidelity and devotion in relationships.
- Rebirth and Renewal: As flowers that bloom in the fall, chrysanthemums symbolize the idea of rebirth and the renewal that can follow a period of dormancy.
- Death: In some European countries, chrysanthemums are symbolic of death and are often used in funerary arrangements and to honor the deceased.
- Joy and Optimism: The bright and cheerful appearance of the chrysanthemum often embodies joy and optimism.
- Nobility: In Asian cultures, particularly in Japan, the chrysanthemum is a noble flower, often associated with the imperial family and appearing on the Emperor's official seal.
WaterMums require even moisture for optimal growth, so water your Chrysanthemum 'Peak Glow' deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this equates to watering once or twice per week, depending on environmental conditions. Distribute water evenly around the base of the plant and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases. During hot weather or periods of drought, you might need to water more frequently. Provide around one to two gallons of water per week, ensuring you adjust for rainfall and temperature changes.
LightMums thrive in full sunlight, so position your Chrysanthemum 'Peak Glow' in a spot where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Adequate light is essential for the plant to develop strong stems and vibrant blooms. Avoid locations where the plant will be in heavy shade or where buildings, trees, or other structures may block a significant amount of sunlight throughout the day.
TemperatureChrysanthemum 'Peak Glow' prefers a temperature range from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 32 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost to prevent damage. For best performance and bloom production, maintain the recommended temperature range and avoid exposing the plant to extremes outside of these parameters.
PruningPruning encourages bushier growth and more abundant blooms for your Chrysanthemum 'Peak Glow.' Pinch back the growing tips when the plant is about 6 inches tall to promote branching and deadhead spent flowers to maintain its appearance. Prune mums in late spring to early summer, and again lightly in early fall if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning close to blooming time to prevent a reduction in flowers.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for mums should be well-draining and fertile with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of loamy garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand works well to support their growth while ensuring proper drainage.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years, preferably in the spring, to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer average household humidity levels, between 40-60%, avoiding overly dry or humid conditions that can stress the plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place mums in bright indirect light and water when the topsoil feels dry.
Outdoor
Plant mums in a sunny spot with well-draining soil and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Peak Glow', commonly known as a mum, starts its life cycle as a seed or more commonly from cuttings or division, with germination occurring under the right conditions of warmth and moisture. The seedling develops into a vegetative stage, where leaves and stems grow rapidly given proper sunlight, water, and nutrients. The plant then enters a budding phase, often as temperatures start to decrease in late summer, where flower buds form and start to show color. Full bloom occurs in the fall, showcasing the vibrant flowers that are characteristic of the mum. After flowering, the plant starts to die back with the onset of winter, entering a period of dormancy. In spring, if conditions are right and the plant has survived the winter, it can re-sprout from the base or root system, thus beginning a new growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Chrysanthemum 'Peak Glow', commonly known as mums, can be propagated through a popular method called division. The best time to propagate mums through division is in early spring, after the last frost has passed but before new growth begins in earnest. To propagate by division, dig up the entire plant and carefully shake off the excess soil so you can see the natural divisions in the root ball. Using a sharp spade or knife, separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has at least one viable shoot and a portion of the root system. These divisions can then be immediately replanted in well-draining soil at the same depth they were growing originally. Make sure to water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them in their new locations.
