Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magnet' (29a)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magnet' is a stunning perennial plant that is well known for its decorative appeal, especially in the autumn months when it blooms generously. The plant showcases an abundance of flowers, characterized by their vibrant, deep pink to purple petals that radiate from a central disc. Each flower is comprised of multiple layers of these petals, which are quilled and tubular, giving the bloom an intricate and fluffy appearance that draws in onlookers. The foliage of the Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magnet' is equally attractive, with leaves that are deep green in color, providing a lush and contrasting backdrop to the vivid flowers. The leaves have a typical chrysanthemum shape, being lobed with a slightly serrated edge, adding textural interest to the plant. As a cultivar, 'Pennine Magnet' is grown for its showy flowers which make an excellent choice for cut-flower arrangements due to their long-lasting quality and striking color. While it is cultivated for its aesthetic appeal, the plant also attracts various pollinators, which adds to the vibrancy of the garden ecosystem. Since this response should avoid mentioning the size of the plant, it's important to note that the overall appearance of the Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magnet' is characterized by its lush foliage and prominent floral display that brings a splash of color to garden spaces during its flowering period.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Pennine Magnet Chrysanthemum, Hardy Garden Mum, Florist's Daisy, Football Mum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magnet'
ToxicityTo humans
The Chrysanthemum, commonly known as mums, can be mildly toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains compounds such as sesquiterpene, lactones, pyrethrins, and other potential irritants. While it is typically not dangerous, ingestion can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, dermatitis, or skin rashes in some people. The most serious risk comes from allergic reactions which can vary in severity. It is advisable to handle mums with care to avoid skin irritation and to prevent ingesting any part of the plant.
To pets
For pets, Chrysanthemums, or mums, are considered toxic. The toxicity is due to pyrethrins and other compounds that can be harmful if ingested. Symptoms of mum poisoning in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious neurologic symptoms such as seizures and can be life-threatening if not treated by a veterinarian. Pets should not be allowed to ingest 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- Attracts pollinators: The Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magnet' attracts beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which are vital for pollination and the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its vibrant and colorful flowers, this plant adds visual interest and beauty to any garden or floral arrangement.
- Seasonal interest: Chrysanthemums are known for their late-season blooms, providing color and life to gardens when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Easy to grow: This plant is known for being relatively easy to cultivate, making it a good choice for both experienced and novice gardeners.
- Versatility: Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magnet' can be used in beds, borders, and containers, offering a range of uses in garden design and landscaping.
- Durability: Chrysanthemums are hardy plants that can withstand various climates and conditions once established, ensuring longevity in the garden.
- Perennial growth: Being a perennial, it can provide recurring blooms each year with the proper care, making it a long-term addition to the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photographic subject: Gardeners and photographers might use Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magnet' for its aesthetic appeal in photography projects due to its striking flowers and vibrant colors.
- Natural dye: The petals of the Chrysanthemum can be used to create a yellow to golden natural dye for fabrics or paper crafts.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists may draw inspiration from the unique form and color of the plant for paintings, drawings, and other artistic creations.
- Garden design: Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magnet' can be used as a colorful accent in garden beds or border designs to create visually pleasing landscapes.
- Event decor: Because of its attractive blooms, the plant can be used in fresh bouquets or floral arrangements for weddings, parties, or other events.
- Culinary presentation: Edible varieties of Chrysanthemum can be used as a garnish for plating and presentation in gourmet cooking.
- Botanical studies: The plant can be used for educational purposes in schools or botanical studies to teach about plant biology and horticulture.
- Craft projects: Dried Chrysanthemum flowers can be used in scrapbooking, card making, or other craft projects.
- Companion planting: The Chrysanthemum may be planted alongside other flowers to create beneficial plant interactions and enhance garden vitality.
- Cultural festivals: In certain cultures, the Chrysanthemum is used in festivals or celebrations as a symbol of autumn and harvest time.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChrysanthemum is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityChrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with longevity because of their robust nature and ability to bloom into the colder months.
- Rebirth: As they bloom in the fall, chrysanthemums symbolize the idea of rebirth and the cycle of life.
- Happiness: In several cultures, chrysanthemums represent happiness and joy thanks to their bright and cheerful appearance.
- Loyalty: The recurrent blooming year after year can be seen as a symbol of loyalty and devoted love.
- Ease of life: Chrysanthemums can symbolize a life of ease, possibly because of their association with retirement and leisure due to their blooming time.
WaterThe Chrysanthemum, commonly known as Mum, requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. It should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which can be approximately once a week; however, this may vary depending on climate conditions. A good practice is to provide the Mum with about one gallon of water per week, adjusting for rain and high temperatures which may increase the plant's need for water. It's important to avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases and to water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry.
LightMums thrive in environments where they can receive full sun for at least six hours a day. The best spot for Mums would be in a location where they are exposed to direct sunlight during the morning and partial shade in the afternoon to protect them from the intense heat, if possible.
TemperatureMums are hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but they perform best when daytime temperatures are between 70 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures do not drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive a light frost, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit can be damaging.
PruningPruning encourages Mums to develop a more robust and bushy growth habit and increases flower production. Pinch back the tips of new growth until the middle of summer to promote branching; after mid-July, stop pruning to allow flower buds to form. The best time to prune is early in the growing season and when new shoots are 4-6 inches tall.
SoilThe best soil mix for Chrysanthemums, often called mums, is a well-draining potting mix with added compost for nutrients. It should be kept slightly acidic to neutral, with an ideal pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingChrysanthemums should be repotted every one to two years or when they outgrow their current pot. This encourages fresh growth and maintains plant health.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemums prefer a moderate humidity level, around 40-60%. Avoid overly dry air which can stress the plant and increase pest risk.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and water moderately.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, shelter from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Pennine Magnet', commonly known as Hardy Garden Mum, begins its life cycle as a seed, germinating in the early spring under the correct conditions of light, temperature, and moisture. The seedling emerges and grows, developing a strong root system and vegetative structures including leaves and stems through the spring and into summer. In the vegetative stage, the plant channels energy into vigorous growth, until environmental cues such as shorter daylight hours and lower temperatures signal the onset of the flowering stage late in the summer or early fall. The plant then produces distinctive flowers, which can be a variety of colors but often showcase shades of pink or purple, and these attract pollinators for sexual reproduction. Following pollination, seeds develop and are eventually dispersed, concluding the flowering stage. As winter approaches, the plant enters dormancy, conserving energy at or just below the soil surface until the next growing season begins.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Magnet', commonly known as the hardy garden mum, is most commonly propagated through division, which is best done in early spring as new growth begins. To propagate by division, carefully lift the entire clump from the ground using a shovel or garden fork, ensuring a good amount of soil is kept with the roots. Using a sharp knife or spade, slice through the clump to create smaller divisions, each with several shoots and a healthy root system. Replant the divisions immediately into well-prepared soil, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 45 to 60 cm) apart to allow for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method ensures genetic consistency and is a quick way to produce new plants that will bloom in the same growing season.
