Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Whistle' (29f)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Whistle' is a striking flower known for its ornate blooms that often become the focal point of autumn displays. It features an abundance of petals that are densely packed, creating a lush and full appearance. The petals have a spoon-shaped look, curving gently inward and overlapping one another in a radiating pattern from the center of the flower. As they near the center, the petals may become more tubular, contributing to the flower’s intricate texture. In terms of color, the 'Pennine Whistle' exhibits a warm palette, with the petals displaying shades that can range from a soft cream to bright yellow, sometimes with hints of pale pink or apricot depending on the growing conditions and maturity of the bloom. The center of the flower typically has a deeper, more vivid hue, which may appear as a darker yellow or even a rich golden tone, providing a striking contrast to the lighter colored petals. The leaves of the 'Pennine Whistle' are dark green, with an ovate to lance-shaped silhouette, and they have a slightly serrated edge, which adds further detail to the overall texture of the plant. The foliage forms a backdrop that showcases the flowers and can enhance their visual impact. As a member of the Chrysanthemum family, the 'Pennine Whistle' shares common traits such as the classic composite flower structure and the distinct layering of its petals, which contributes to its appealing visual symmetry and depth.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mum, Chrysanthemum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Whistle'
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemum, which includes the 'Pennine Whistle' variety, is generally considered to have low toxicity for humans. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or dermatitis upon contact with the plant because of the naturally-occurring chemicals called pyrethrins. Ingesting parts of the chrysanthemum plant might cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases, if ingested in significant amounts, it could lead to more severe symptoms including salivation, diarrhea, vomiting, and incoordination.
To pets
Chrysanthemum is toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats. If a pet ingests chrysanthemums, they might exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In more severe cases, the pet could experience symptoms like depression, and signs of systemic involvement such as difficulty breathing if a substantial amount of the plant has been consumed. The toxic effects are due to pyrethrins and other related compounds that act as neurotoxins. Prompt veterinary attention is advised if a pet has ingested any part of a chrysanthemum plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2-3 feet (61-91 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (61-91 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Whistle', commonly known as hardy mum, is known for its ornamental value, featuring vibrant flowers that can enhance the aesthetics of gardens and landscapes.
- Versatile Landscaping: Hardy mums can be used in a variety of landscaping designs, including borders, containers, and as mass plantings for a showy display of color.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooming in the fall, when many other plants are winding down, hardy mums provide a much-needed splash of color in the autumn landscape.
- Easy to Grow: These plants are known for being low maintenance and suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Attract Pollinators: Hardy mums attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting biodiversity and pollination in the garden.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, they are relatively drought tolerant, making them suitable for xeriscaping and reducing the need for frequent watering.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: Artists and photographers often use the vibrant Chrysanthemum as a subject in their works due to its rich colors and intricate petal structures.
- Floral Arrangement Education: The Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Whistle' is used for instructional purposes in floral design classes to teach about form, balance, and color harmony.
- Natural Fabric Dyes: The petals of Chrysanthemum can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, offering hues ranging from yellows to greens depending on mordants used.
- Garden Pest Repellent: The strong scent of the Chrysanthemum is believed to repel certain garden pests, making it a companion plant in vegetable gardens.
- Symbolism in Art and Culture: Chrysanthemums have cultural significance in many societies which can be depicted in literature, art pieces, or plays as a symbol of autumn or particular virtues.
- Culinary Presentations: Petals of the Chrysanthemum can be used as an edible garnish for fancy dishes, adding both color and a unique floral flavor.
- Decorative Potpourri: Dried Chrysanthemum flowers can be included in potpourri mixes for their appearance and natural scent, freshening up a room naturally.
- Bookmarks and Stationery: Pressed Chrysanthemum flowers are often used to create decorative bookmarks and stationery, offering a touch of nature's beauty to paper products.
- Candle Making: The petals of Chrysanthemums can be used in the production of handmade candles, occasionally adding a faint natural aroma and enhancing the candle’s aesthetic.
- Crafting Natural Inks: Chrysanthemum petals can be boiled down to make natural inks for use in traditional calligraphy or eco-friendly art projects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is associated with happiness and laughter in Feng Shui. It can be placed in the living room or other areas where families gather for increased positivity and to lift the Chi energy. This promotes Yang energy which encourages active, vibrant energy in the space.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums are often associated with a long life and the enduring nature of the soul, representing the wish for a long and healthy life.
- Loyalty and Devotion: In some cultures, chrysanthemums symbolize deep loyalty and unwavering faithfulness, making them ideal gifts for friends and loved ones to express steadfastness.
- Happiness and Joy: With their bright and cheerful appearance, chrysanthemums often represent joy and optimism in various ceremonies and celebrations.
- Rebirth and Renewal: As flowers that bloom in the fall, chrysanthemums can symbolize the idea of renewal and the cycle of life, as well as the resilience to start anew.
- Ease of Adversity: In some traditions, chrysanthemums are believed to have the power to ease the burdens of adversity and tough times, often serving as a symbol of encouragement.
WaterMums require even moisture and should be watered regularly. Water the Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Whistle' thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This usually means watering at least once a week, but frequency may increase during hot, dry periods to possibly every other day. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf spot diseases, and instead, water at the base of the plant using a soaker hose or drip irrigation. Ensure it receives about one gallon of water per week, adjusting based on rainfall and temperatures.
LightMums thrive in full sunlight, so the Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Whistle' should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. An east or south-facing location is often ideal, providing bright light without the harsh midday sun. Insufficient light may lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers.
TemperatureThe Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Whistle' prefers a moderate climate with temperatures ranging between 60°F and 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 32°F, but frost can damage the plant. Maximum temperatures should be below 90°F, as excessive heat may stress the plant and lead to poor performance.
PruningPrune Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Whistle' to encourage a bushier growth habit and more blooms. Pinch back the tips of stems by about an inch once they reach 6 inches in height, usually by late spring. Repeat the pinching every few weeks until mid-summer to promote branching. After flowering in the fall, cut back the stems to 2-3 inches above ground level to prepare the plant for winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, requiring a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite is ideal.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years in spring to encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable; however, they should be protected from overly damp conditions to prevent disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, away from drafts, and water when top soil feels dry.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny spot with well-drained soil; water regularly.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Pennine Whistle', commonly known as hardy garden mum, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in well-draining soil with adequate warmth and moisture. Upon sprouting, seedlings develop a set of true leaves and continue to grow into juvenile plants, forming a compact bush with bright green foliage. The vegetative stage is characterized by robust growth and branching, which is often enhanced by pinching back to encourage bushier plants. As daylight hours decrease in late summer to early fall, the plant enters the budding stage, where flower buds form and subsequently bloom, showcasing the signature decorative flowers with a wide range of colors. After flowering, the plant goes into a period of senescence; in regions with harsh winters, it may die back to the ground, whereas in milder climates, it can persist and enter dormancy. With the return of favorable conditions in spring, the chrysanthemum may regrow from the root system to complete its perennial cycle or require new seeds to be sown if it did not survive winter conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Chrysanthemum 'Pennine Whistle' involves taking stem cuttings. This is typically done in spring when the plant's new growth is about 4 to 6 inches long (10-15 cm). Gardeners should select healthy, non-flowering stems and make a clean cut just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are then stripped, and the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The soil should be kept moist but not wet, and the cuttings should be placed in indirect light. In a few weeks, the cuttings will develop roots and can eventually be transplanted outdoors once they are well-established and the danger of frost has passed.
