Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' (PBR) (22)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' is a captivating flowering plant known for its vibrant and showy blossoms. This plant flaunts an abundance of tightly packed petals that create a striking visual impact. The flowers are typically characterized by a rich, warm color palette that can include shades of red, orange, yellow, and bronze, although the exact hue may vary. Each flower head is composed of multiple layers of these alluring petals often radiating around a central disk. This central disk might be of a contrasting color, adding to the overall beauty of the bloom. The foliage of Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' is equally as attractive, with deeply lobed leaves that have a lush green color. These leaves are arranged along the stems, providing a dense backdrop that makes the colorful flowers stand out even more. The overall form of the plant is usually rounded and bushy, giving it a full and abundant appearance, which is especially dazzling when multiple plants are grouped together. The combination of its stunning blooms and attractive foliage makes Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' a popular choice for adding a splash of autumnal color to gardens and landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Garden Mum, Florist's Chrysanthemum, Hardy Chrysanthemum.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' (PBR) (22)
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' is part of the chrysanthemum family. Chrysanthemums are not considered highly toxic to humans, but they can cause skin irritation in some individuals due to the presence of sesquiterpene lactones, which are known to cause allergic reactions. If ingested, parts of the plant may cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is always advisable to handle plants with care and avoid ingesting any part of ornamental plants.
To pets
Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' falls under the chrysanthemum family, which is known to be toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. The plant contains compounds called pyrethrins, which can lead to symptoms of poisoning if ingested by pets. These symptoms can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can cause more serious nervous system symptoms such as tremors, seizures, and possibly death. It is important to keep chrysanthemums out of reach of pets and seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to Grow: Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' is known for being a hardy plant that doesn't require expert gardening skills.
- Long Blooming: It typically has a long blooming season, providing colorful flowers for an extended period.
- Attracts Beneficial Insects: The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for your garden ecosystem.
- Decorative: With its vibrant and colorful flowers, it's commonly used in garden beds, borders, and as a decorative potted plant.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can survive with less water, making it suitable for drier climates or water-wise gardens.
- Versatile: It can be planted in different garden settings, from formal borders to informal cottage gardens.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Biodegradable Plant Pots: Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' can be used to create biodegradable plant pots, decomposing and adding nutrients to the soil when planted directly in the ground.
- Natural Dyes: The flowers can be processed to derive natural dyes for textiles, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes.
- Culinary Garnishes: The petals of Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' can be used as colorful, edible garnishes in salads and other dishes for a unique presentation.
- Aromatherapy: The scent of Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' may be used in aromatherapy practices for creating calming and pleasant environments.
- Photography: With their vibrant colors, these flowers are often used as subjects in photography, helping photographers to capture the essence of nature.
- Crafts: Dried Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' flowers are used in arts and crafts for making bookmarks, greeting cards, and other decorative items.
- Plant Learning Projects: The Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' can be cultivated in schools as part of botanical learning projects to teach students about plant growth cycles and horticulture.
- Special Occasions: They can be used to create eco-friendly confetti for weddings and other celebrations instead of plastic-based confetti.
- Perfumery: The distinct fragrance of the Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' can be extracted and used in the production of perfumes.
- Eco-Friendly Insect Repellant: The natural properties found in these flowers can deter certain insects, making them a natural and eco-friendly option for insect control in gardens.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is associated with happiness and longevity in Feng Shui. To use it according to Feng Shui principles, place the Chrysanthemum in areas of your home where you want to promote a sense of well-being and relaxation, such as the living room. It can also be placed in the center of your home to foster balance and generate positive energy.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are traditionally associated with long life and well-being in many cultures, particularly in Asia.
- Loyalty and Integrity: In many Western cultures, the Chrysanthemum is a symbol of loyalty and honesty.
- Death and Grieving: In some European countries, such as France and Italy, Chrysanthemums are often used in funerary arrangements and to honor the deceased.
- Joy and Optimism: Because of their bright and cheerful appearance, Chrysanthemums can symbolize happiness and a positive outlook on life.
- Rebirth and Renewal: Chrysanthemums blooming in the fall, when many other flowers have faded, can represent the idea of rebirth and the renewal of cycles.
WaterMums, the common name for Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop', prefer evenly moist soil, so watering should be done thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This may mean watering once every week, but the frequency can vary depending on climate conditions such as heat and wind. Generally, you should provide about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water to thoroughly soak the soil around the plant. During hot, dry periods, you might have to water more frequently, whereas in cooler, wetter conditions, you can water less often. Always avoid overhead watering to prevent disease; direct water to the base of the plant instead.
LightMums thrive in areas where they can receive full sun, meaning at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal spot for these plants is an area where morning sunlight is abundant, as this helps to dry dew from the leaves, reducing the risk of disease. If grown indoors, place them near a south-facing window to ensure they get enough light.
TemperatureMums prefer a moderate temperature range, thriving best between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and cooler overnight temperatures, around 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about 32 degrees Fahrenheit, but for prolonged blooming and health, they should not be exposed to extremes of hot or cold. The ideal conditions mimic the climate of their fall blooming season.
PruningPruning mums helps to encourage bushier growth and more abundant blooms. Pinch back the tips of new growth in late spring to early summer, about every 2 to 3 weeks, until mid-July to promote a fuller plant. The best time for major pruning is just after the blooming season ends, when you can cut back the stems to 1 to 2 inches above the ground to prepare the plant for winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Chrysanthemums should be well-draining and fertile with good aeration. A blend of peat, perlite, and compost works well; aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.5-7.0.
RepottingChrysanthemums should be repotted annually to refresh the soil and to accommodate root growth. Consider repotting in the spring before the growing season.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemums prefer moderate humidity levels. The best range is between 40-60%, avoiding excessively dry or humid conditions to maintain plant health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Chrysanthemums in bright indirect light with good air circulation.
Outdoor
Place Chrysanthemums in full sun to part shade and protect from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' begins its life cycle as a seed or more commonly as a cutting, which when planted, germinates or roots within 1-3 weeks in favorable conditions. It enters a vegetative stage where leaves and stems develop rapidly, depending on environmental factors such as light, water, and temperature. Once the plant is mature enough, it enters the flowering stage, usually induced by decreasing daylight hours, wherein it produces its characteristic brightly colored blooms. After pollination, the flowers will eventually wither and the plant will develop seeds if conditions permit, completing its reproductive cycle. In some cases, growers may remove spent flowers to encourage additional blooms in a practice called deadheading. As a perennial, the Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' may then enter a period of dormancy during colder months before resuming growth in the next season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Chrysanthemum 'Pitstop' (PBR) (22), also known simply as mums, are most commonly propagated through division, which is best done in spring as new growth begins. To propagate by division, dig up an existing mum plant ensuring a large clump of roots and soil are intact. Carefully break the clump apart into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. Once separated, replant these divisions immediately into a well-prepared bed or potting mix, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45 cm) apart to allow for growth. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish the roots. Division not only multiplies your mums but also rejuvenates older plants that may have become woody or less vigorous.
