Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic' (29c)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic' is a striking floral plant known for its vibrant blooms. The most distinctive feature is its flowers, which typically display a bright color that can add a touch of brilliance to any garden during the blooming season. The blooms can be quite large and often have a multitude of overlapping petals that create a full, almost pom-pom-like effect, contributing to the plant's visual impact. The petals have a unique texture that is velvety to the touch, and their color may range from a deep hue at the base, becoming lighter toward the tips. This gradation of color adds depth and complexity to each flower. The plant bears its flowers on stems that rise above the foliage, making the blooms prominent and eye-catching. The foliage of Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic' consists of dark green leaves that are deeply lobed. These leaves can be quite ornate, with edges that may appear almost feathery. The contrast between the green of the leaves and the vivid color of the flowers makes for a striking visual display. Overall, the appearance of Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic' is dominated by its spectacular blooms that capture the eye with their vivid colors and lush, rounded forms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Mum, Florist's Chrysanthemum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic'
ToxicityTo humans
The common chrysanthemum, which includes varieties like 'Pennine Magic', typically contains pyrethrins and sesquiterpene lactones, which can be mildly toxic to humans if ingested. The symptoms of poisoning may include dermatitis, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Ingesting parts of this plant could potentially cause skin rashes or an allergic reaction in some individuals.
To pets
Chrysanthemums, including 'Pennine Magic', are toxic to pets, including dogs, cats, and horses. The symptoms of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, incoordination, and dermatitis. Ingesting any part of the chrysanthemum plant could lead to gastrointestinal upset, and contact with the skin could cause irritation. If you suspect your pet has ingested part of a chrysanthemum, it is best to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
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 color and beauty to gardens with its striking blooms.
- Versatility: Suitable for growing in containers, borders, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooms in late summer to autumn, providing seasonal color when other plants may be declining.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Easy to Grow: Low-maintenance requirements make it great for beginner gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dry weather.
- Frost Resistance: Able to withstand cooler temperatures and light frosts.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Floral Displays: Chrysanthemum flowers are commonly used in floral arrangements and can be a centerpiece in a bouquet due to their vibrant colors and varied flower shapes.
- Art and Craft: The petals of Chrysanthemums can be used in art projects, such as pressed flower crafts, to create natural decorations and keepsakes.
- Natural Fabric Dyes: The petals can be boiled to extract color and used as a natural dye for fabrics, offering a range of colors from yellows to greens depending on the mordant used.
- Photography Subjects: Their aesthetic appeal makes them excellent subjects for photographers looking to capture the intricate details and vibrant colors of floral life.
- Companion Planting: Gardeners may plant Chrysanthemums as companions to certain vegetables to deter pests, as they are thought to have natural insect-repellent properties.
- Culinary Garnish: While not for this specific variety, generally, some Chrysanthemum flowers are edible and can be used to add color and a slight tangy flavor to salads and other dishes.
- Education and Research: Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic' can be used in horticultural studies and breeding programs to teach about plant genetics and hybridization techniques.
- Festival Decor: Associated with several cultural festivals around the world, including the Chinese Double Ninth Festival, they are used for thematic decorations.
- Perfumery: Some varieties of Chrysanthemum are used for their scent in making perfumes and other fragranced products, though 'Pennine Magic' may not specifically be used for this.
- Organic Mulch: When the Chrysanthemum plant is past its prime, the plant matter can be composted and used as organic mulch for gardens, enriching the soil with nutrients as it decomposes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe chrysanthemum is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Loyalty and Devotion: Chrysanthemums are often given as a sign of loyalty and devoted love between friends or significant others due to their hardy and robust nature.
- Longevity and Cheerfulness: These plants are associated with long life and happiness, reflecting their own long blooming season and cheerful appearance.
- Death and Mourning: In some European countries, chrysanthemums are symbolic of death and are often used for funerals or to honor those who have passed away.
- Rebirth and Renewal: In line with its longevity symbolism, the chrysanthemum also represents the cycle of rebirth and the renewal that comes with each season.
- Nobility: In Japanese culture, the chrysanthemum is a noble flower, often associated with the emperor and Imperial family, symbolizing perfection and divinity.
WaterMums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic,' prefer to be watered deeply and regularly during their growing season. Water them with about 1 inch of water per week, making sure to soak the soil thoroughly each time. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water them more frequently to maintain moisture levels. It is crucial to avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. If you're using a watering can or hose, this often translates to about 0.5 gallons for a medium-sized plant. Always check the soil moisture before watering; it should be moist but not waterlogged.
LightMums thrive in full sunlight to achieve their full blooming potential. Place your Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic' in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Avoid too much shade, as this can reduce flowering and may cause the plant to become leggy.
TemperatureMums are generally hardy and the Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic' does best in temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 32°F, but frost can damage the plants. During their blooming season, ensure they are protected from extreme temperatures above 86°F to prevent heat stress.
PruningRegular pruning encourages the Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic' to become bushier and produce more flowers. Pinch back the tips of the stems in early summer, and then again 6 weeks later, to promote branching. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage further flowering. The best time for major pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining soil enriched with compost. A soil pH of 6.5 is ideal for Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic'. An effective mix can be created using two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or vermiculite to ensure sufficient drainage and aeration.
RepottingChrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic' should be repotted every one to two years or if the plant shows signs of being root-bound. The best time to repot these mums is in the spring after the danger of frost has passed.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic', like other mums, prefers moderate humidity levels. Aim to maintain humidity around 50-60%, as overly dry or too humid conditions can lead to plant stress and potential disease problems.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, keep soil moderately moist, and ensure good airflow for mums.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil for best growth.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic', commonly known as hardy garden mum or florist's daisy, begins its life cycle as a seed or cutting, which when planted, germinates or roots within a week or two under the right conditions of warmth and moisture. The seedling or rooted cutting grows into a vegetative state, developing a bushy structure with deep green leaves. As it matures with sufficient light and nutrients, the plant enters the flowering stage, typically in late summer or fall, producing numerous vibrant flowers attractive in ornamental horticulture. After blooming, the flowers eventually wilt, and the plant goes into a dormant phase in winter, where it conserves energy by dropping leaves and ceasing growth in colder climates. In spring, the plant reemerges from dormancy, sending up new shoots to start the cycle anew. The plant can also be propagated during its growth period through division or cuttings to create new plants, extending its life cycle beyond an individual specimen.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magic', commonly known as the hardy garden mum, can be propagated most effectively using the division method. This technique works best in the spring when new growth begins to appear. To propagate by division, a gardener should gently lift the entire plant from the soil once it has reached a sufficient size and shows signs of active growth. After lifting the plant, it can be divided into smaller sections, making sure each section has a fair amount of roots attached. These sections are then replanted into well-draining soil, spaced at least 18 to 24 inches (about 45 to 60 cm) apart to allow ample room for growth. Regular watering and a light application of a balanced fertilizer can help the new divisions establish more quickly. With proper care, these divisions will grow into robust plants that are true to the 'Pennine Magic' variety.
