Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Pink Splendour' (10a)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Pink Splendour' is a stunning flowering plant known for its vibrant and voluminous blooms. The main attraction of this plant is its large, showy flowers which boast rich, pink petals. These petals have a distinct appearance; they are often characteristically spoon-shaped, curling at the edges and creating a sense of depth and texture. The color of the petals can vary from a soft, pastel pink to a more bold, deep hue, sometimes with darker or lighter shadings at the tips or towards the base, giving each flower a unique splendor. The flowers are composed of many layers of these petals, forming a dense, pompom-like appearance which makes them quite eye-catching in any garden setting. In the center of each flower, there is a core of tiny, yellowish disk florets that contrast beautifully with the pink petals, adding to the visual appeal of the plant. These blooms are typically arranged in clusters atop sturdy stems which are surrounded by lush, green foliage. The leaves of the Chrysanthemum 'Pink Splendour' are bright green, with a slightly lobed and serrated edge, and they can be quite dense, providing a thick backdrop to showcase the flowers. This chrysanthemum variety is well-loved not only for its aesthetic qualities but also for its extended flowering period, which provides a long-lasting display of color in the landscape. The plant blooms profusely, often covered in flowers that can last several weeks, making it a popular choice for cut flower arrangements and bouquets as well.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Garden Mum, Florist's Chrysanthemum, Hardy Chrysanthemum.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Pink Splendour'
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, generally have a low level of toxicity to humans. If parts of the plant are ingested, the most common symptoms of poisoning might include dermatitis or skin irritation, and if ingested in large amounts, symptoms might include gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and possibly leading to a lack of appetite.
To pets
Mums are known to be toxic to pets, including dogs, cats, and horses. If a pet consumes any part of the plant, it can result in symptoms of poisoning which may include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion could lead to more serious conditions such as depression or drooling, and it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately if poisoning is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value - The plant provides an aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes with its vibrant pink flowers.
- Pest Repellent - The Chrysanthemum is known to naturally repel certain pests, keeping nearby plants healthier.
- Low Maintenance - It is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal attention once established.
- Drought Tolerant - The plant has the ability to withstand periods of limited water availability.
- Long Blooming - It offers a long flowering period which can extend the visual appeal of garden spaces.
- Attracts Beneficial Insects - The blooms attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity.
- Seasonal Color - It provides seasonal color, particularly in the fall when many other plants are fading.
- Easy to Propagate - The plant can be easily propagated from cuttings or division, making it easy to expand your garden or share with friends.
- Versatility - Can be grown in beds, borders, and containers, offering versatility in garden design and placement.
- Cold Hardy - It is suitable for planting in colder climates within its USDA hardiness zone.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artificial Dye: Chrysanthemum petals can be boiled to extract a natural dye for textiles and crafts.
- Companion Planting: Chrysanthemums can be planted in gardens to help deter pests, acting as a natural insect repellent due to their pyrethrin content.
- Photography Subjects: With their vivid colors and intricate patterns, chrysanthemums are popular subjects for photographers and botanical artists.
- Culinary Decoration: Edible varieties of chrysanthemum petals can be used to garnish salads, desserts, and drinks for an elegant touch.
- Fragrance Production: Some types of chrysanthemums are used in the production of perfumes and essential oils for their aromatic properties.
- Environmental Indicators: Chrysanthemums can be used as bioindicators to monitor the presence of pollutants like sulfur dioxide in the environment.
- Biological Studies: Due to their varied genetics, chrysanthemums are used in botanical studies related to plant breeding and genetics.
- Floating Decorations: The flower heads of chrysanthemums can be floated in bowls of water as a decorative element in various ceremonies or spa settings.
- Gift Plants: Given their broad range of colors and forms, chrysanthemums are popular as gifts, particularly in pot culture where they can be enjoyed indoors.
- Biocontrol Agent: Chrysanthemum extracts are employed in agriculture to create natural pesticides that are less harmful than synthetic chemicals.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is associated in Feng Shui with happiness and well-being. To use the Chrysanthemum for Feng Shui purposes, place it in areas of your home where you want to foster joy, longevity, and good health. This plant is often recommended for the living room or other spaces where you entertain guests, as it is believed to bring positive energy and ward off negative influences. The 'Pink Splendour' variety, with its gentle pink hues, can especially nurture a calming and soothing atmosphere.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums, in general, are symbolic of a long life, and in some cultures, eternal life due to their hardy nature and ability to bloom into the late fall.
- Rebirth and Renewal: Since they bloom in the fall, they are often associated with the idea of rebirth or the transition from life to death, as well as the possibility of a renewed soul.
- Fidelity and Devotion: In many cultures, chrysanthemums are given to represent fidelity and devotion in relationships, suggesting deep and lasting affection.
- Joy and Optimism: The bright pink color of 'Pink Splendour' is commonly linked with joy and optimism, symbolizing positivity and the cheerful side of life.
- Love and Affection: Like many flowers, chrysanthemums can also symbolize general sentiments of love and strong affection towards someone.
- Beauty and Simplicity: Chrysanthemums are admired for their simple petal structures and overall beauty, symbolizing the idea that true beauty is uncomplicated and can stand on its own merits.
- Nobility: In some Asian cultures, the chrysanthemum is symbolic of nobility and elegance, often associated with aristocracy and refinement.
WaterMums, particularly the 'Pink Splendour' variety, should be watered regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During active growth and blooming, which is typically in the spring and fall, they may need watering once every 2-3 days. The exact frequency depends on climate conditions and soil type. The method of watering should include soaking the soil around the roots while avoiding wetting the foliage to prevent disease. Aim for about 1 gallon per week, adjusting based on weather conditions; more if it's very hot and less if there's rainfall.
LightMums, such as 'Pink Splendour', thrive in full sun, which means they need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for these plants is one where they'll receive morning sun and some afternoon shade in hotter climates, as this will protect them from intense late-day sun.
TemperatureMums like 'Pink Splendour' prefer a temperate climate and perform well in temperatures ranging between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 32 degrees Fahrenheit and, as long as they are properly mulched, can survive short cold snaps. Avoid exposing them to prolonged temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit as it can stress the plants.
PruningPruning 'Pink Splendour' mums is essential for maintaining a compact, bushy growth habit and encouraging more blooms. Pinch back the tips of new growth in late spring to early summer, and cease pinching around midsummer to allow flower buds to form. They should also be pruned after blooming to remove spent flowers and dead or damaged foliage, which helps prevent disease and readies the plant for the next growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChrysanthemums, also known as mums, prefer a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of two parts loam, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or sand makes an ideal growing medium for optimal growth and bloom.
RepottingMums should typically be repotted every one to two years, preferably in the spring. This ensures they have enough room to grow and adequate nutrients to support their abundant flowering.
Humidity & MistingMums thrive in moderate humidity levels, aiming for 40-60%. They can tolerate some variation in humidity, but extreme conditions should be avoided to maintain plant health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light and good airflow for indoor mums.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil, full sun to part shade.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Chrysanthemum 'Pink Splendour', commonly known as Pink Splendour Mum, begins with seed germination or rooting of cuttings, typically carried out in spring under warm conditions. The seedlings or rooted cuttings are then transplanted into the garden or containers, where they grow and establish a strong root system. Throughout the growing season, the Pink Splendour Mum develops a bushy foliage mass and, with proper care, will begin to produce flower buds by late summer. The buds bloom into its distinctive pink flowers in the fall, offering a display that lasts until the first hard frost. After blooming, the plant enters a period of dormancy over the winter months, during which it requires minimal care. In spring, the cycle can be encouraged to repeat either by allowing the plant to regrow from its root system or by propagating new plants from cuttings or division.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The Chrysanthemum 'Pink Splendour', also commonly known as mum, is best propagated through division, a method ideally performed in the springtime once the risk of frost has passed and new shoot growth is visible. In this process, gardeners carefully dig up established clumps of mums and use a sharp, sanitized knife or spade to divide the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring that each division has an adequate amount of roots and a few shoots. These new divisions can then be immediately replanted in well-draining soil, spaced about 18 to 24 inches apart (45 to 60 cm) to allow for adequate room for growth. The transplanted divisions should be watered thoroughly to help establish them in their new locations, and with proper care, they will soon grow into healthy, blooming plants.
