Pink Margaret Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Pink Margaret' (29c)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Pink Margaret' is distinguished by its abundant and vibrant floral display. The plant is characterized by lush green foliage that provides a dense backdrop for the plethora of flowers it produces. The leaves are rich and deep green, with a slightly serrated edge, giving them a textured appearance. Above this foliage emerge the stunning blooms that this cultivar is named for. The flowers of 'Pink Margaret' are particularly attractive, featuring multiple layers of pink petals that radiate from the center to create a full, rounded look. The shade of pink can vary from soft, pastel tones to more vivid hues, depending on various growing conditions. Each flower head is composed of numerous small, tightly-packed petals that unfurl as they blossom, which contributes to the plant's overall pom-pom-like appearance. Catching the eye of garden visitors, the blooms of 'Pink Margaret' chrysanthemum may display varying degrees of color intensity at their petal tips, with some exhibiting a gradient of pink shading that adds depth and dimension to the visual spectacle. The center of each flower is generally more muted, occasionally showing a subtle hint of yellow or green from the reproductive parts, though these are typically less prominent, nestled among the sea of pink petals. 'Pink Margaret' exhibits a bushy, mounded form which makes it an excellent choice for garden beds and borders where its floriferous nature can truly be appreciated. The blooms cover the plant in such profusion that the foliage is often nearly obscured when the plant is in peak bloom. This display of pink flowers makes it a popular choice during its flowering season, bringing a splash of color to any setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Pink Margaret Chrysanthemum, Garden Mum, Florist's Daisy, Hardy Chrysanthemum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Pink Margaret'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name of Chrysanthemum 'Pink Margaret' is chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums are generally considered to have low toxicity for humans. However, if ingested, they can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes a loss of appetite. Contact with the plant's sap may occasionally cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.
To pets
The common name of Chrysanthemum 'Pink Margaret' is chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. Symptoms of poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious symptoms such as depression and lack of appetite. It is important for pet owners to prevent their pets from ingesting any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Beautification: Chrysanthemums, including 'Pink Margaret', are popular for their vibrant and diverse colors, adding aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: They are relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal attention once established in a suitable location.
- Pollinator Attraction: These flowers attract bees and butterflies, aiding in pollination and benefiting the local ecosystem.
- Seasonal Interest: 'Pink Margaret' chrysanthemums typically bloom in late summer to fall, providing color when many other plants are starting to decline.
- Versatility: They can be used in various garden designs, such as borders, container gardens, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Cultural Significance: Chrysanthemums have various meanings and are used in cultural festivals and events around the world, particularly in Asia.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant: Chrysanthemum flowers contain compounds that have antioxidant properties, which can help in neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant may have anti-inflammatory effects that could potentially reduce inflammation-related symptoms in some conditions.
- Sedative: Traditionally, chrysanthemum has been used for its mild sedative effects to help with relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Decorative Ice Cubes: Chrysanthemum 'Pink Margaret' petals can be frozen within ice cubes to create a beautiful and unique addition to cold beverages.
- Natural Fabric Dyes: The petals can be boiled to produce a natural dye for fabrics, giving them a soft pink hue.
- Culinary Garnishes: The edible flowers can be used as a colorful garnish on salads, desserts, and more for an elegant presentation.
- Art Supplies: Petals can be pressed and used for making botanical art or added to paper pulp to create decorative handmade paper.
- Bath Additives: The petals can be added to bathwater for a fragrant and relaxing bathing experience.
- Floral Confetti: Dried petals can be tossed as natural confetti at celebrations such as weddings and parties.
- Scented Bookmarks: Dry the flower and insert it in books to act as a natural bookmark with a pleasant scent.
- Plant Potpourri: Dried Chrysanthemum 'Pink Margaret' petals can be mixed with other dried plants and essential oils to create aromatic potpourri.
- Greeting Cards Decoration: Pressed flowers can be used to embellish greeting cards or invitations for a personal touch.
- Photography Props: The fresh or dried flowers can serve as props in photography to add a touch of nature to the composition.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChrysanthemums are associated with happiness and good luck in Feng Shui. Place the Chrysanthemum in areas of the home such as the living room to promote a sense of ease and well-being. They can also be used to strengthen the metal element thereby attracting wealth, especially when placed in the west or northwest areas of a space.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums have been associated with longevity and immortality due to their hardiness and ability to bloom well into autumn.
- Rejuvenation and Recovery: The 'Pink Margaret' variety, with its vibrant pink petals, symbolizes rejuvenation and the power of recovery, as it blooms brightly as other flowers fade.
- Love and Affection: In many cultures, giving a pink chrysanthemum is a way to express love and deep affection, often in a platonic sense.
- Joy and Optimism: Their bright and cheerful appearance brings joy and optimism, making them suitable for celebratory occasions.
- True Friendship: Chrysanthemums are often given as gifts to signify honesty and true friendship, as they are thought to represent the strong bond between friends.
WaterMums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Pink Margaret', prefer evenly moist soil but are not tolerant of overwatering. A good approach is to water these plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. The frequency of watering can vary with climate conditions, but in general, mums should be watered about once a week, ensuring that each plant receives approximately one gallon of water. It is important to water the plant at the base and avoid wetting the foliage to help prevent disease. During hotter months or windy conditions, check the soil moisture more frequently as the plants may need additional water.
LightMum plants, such as the 'Pink Margaret', thrive best in full sun conditions. They should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, avoiding intense late afternoon sun which can be too harsh. A spot that gets plentiful morning sunlight and some partial shade during the hottest part of the day is ideal for promoting vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
TemperatureMums, like the 'Pink Margaret', perform well in a broad range of temperatures, but they grow best when daytime temperatures are between 70°F and 78°F. These plants can tolerate minimum temperatures as low as 32°F and maximum temperatures of around 90°F; however, extreme temperatures can affect their growth and flowering. It's important to protect mums from frost as it can damage the plants.
PruningMums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Pink Margaret', should be pruned to encourage bushier growth and more abundant flowers. Pinch back the tips of the stems in early summer, removing the top 1 to 2 inches to stimulate lateral growth. Prune again after the first wave of flowering has finished to promote a second bloom. The best time to prune these plants is before mid-July, as pruning too late can reduce blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChrysanthemums prefer well-draining soil with good organic content. A blend of equal parts peat, perlite, and compost is ideal for Pink Margaret. It thrives in a slightly acidic to neutral pH, between 6.5 and 7.0.
RepottingPink Margaret Chrysanthemums should be repotted every one to two years or when they outgrow their current container, best done in early spring before the growing season starts.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemums like Pink Margaret grow best in moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%, which reflects average indoor conditions and supports healthy growth without encouraging fungal issues.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Choose a sunny spot with afternoon shade and shelter from wind.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Chrysanthemum, commonly known as 'mum' or 'Chrysanth', begins with seed germination, which occurs in a warm, moist soil environment where the seeds sprout and develop into small seedlings. These seedlings then grow into vegetative plants with a rosette of leaves close to the ground, through which the plant grows stems and leafy growth. As the 'Pink Margaret' mum matures, it enters the budding stage, where flower buds develop at the tips of the stems, signaling the onset of the reproductive stage. These buds bloom into characteristic vibrant pink flowers, which are integral for attracting pollinators for sexual reproduction, thereby producing seeds for the next generation. Following pollination and seed set, the plant eventually enters a period of senescence, where leaves and stems turn brown and die back, especially after frost in temperate climates. The plant may enter a dormancy phase over winter, storing energy in its root system to regrow in the spring, or if it was an annual variety, it completes its lifecycle and dies after seed production.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Pink Margaret,' commonly known as mums, is typically propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this plant. Propagation by division is best done in the spring when the new growth appears. To divide mums, carefully dig up the entire plant, ensuring a good portion of the root system is intact for each section. With a sharp spade or knife, divide the clump into smaller sections, each with at least one developing shoot and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45.72 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth and air circulation. Water the new plants thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This straightforward technique allows gardeners to create new plants that are genetic copies of the parent and ensures a consistent display of 'Pink Margaret's' vibrant blooms.
