Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Princess Anne' (4b)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Princess Anne' is a striking plant known for its vibrant blossoms that capture the attention of onlookers. This chrysanthemum variety showcases an abundance of flowers that have a unique, decorative quality. Each flower is composed of a dense cluster of petals, which may range in color from a warm yellow to rich gold tones, often with the petals tipped in a contrasting shade of earthy bronze or subtle red, giving them a two-toned effect that adds to their visual appeal. The shape of the blossoms can be quite plush, bearing a resemblance to pompoms. The tightly packed petals create a sense of fullness and opulence, making the blooms a popular choice for bouquets and flower arrangements. Surrounding these showy flowers, the foliage of 'Princess Anne' is equally attractive. The leaves are lush and generally deep green, which can vary in shade according to the amount of sunlight and the health of the plant. They are divided into lobed or toothed leaflets, providing a textured background that complements the brilliance of the flowers. When in full bloom, Chrysanthemum 'Princess Anne' exudes a quintessential charm that is often associated with autumnal displays, as it is a staple in fall gardens. The blossoms are not only a visual delight but can also have a pleasant fragrance that attracts a variety of pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding to the plant's natural allure. The overall aesthetic of the Chrysanthemum 'Princess Anne' is a blend of robust color and graceful form, contributing to its popularity as a specimen plant in gardens, as well as its use in cut-flower arrangements and decorative seasonal displays. Whether grown in garden beds, borders, or pots, it brings a burst of color that enhances its surroundings.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Mum, Chrysanths.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Princess Anne'
- Toxicity
To humans
Chrysanthemums are not highly toxic to humans, but they do contain compounds that may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. If ingested, they can cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, specifically cats and dogs. The plant contains compounds like pyrethrins, which if ingested, can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis in some cases. Severe poisoning can lead to more serious conditions such as depression, hyperactivity, and in rare cases, seizures. If you suspect your pet has ingested chrysanthemum, you should contact a veterinarian immediately.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
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
- Attracts Pollinators: Brings in bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden.
- Colorful Blooms: Offers bright, attractive flowers typically in the fall, enhancing garden aesthetics.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of low water availability.
- Easy to Grow: Known for its ease of cultivation and low maintenance needs.
- Long-Lasting Flowers: Blooms can last for several weeks, providing prolonged visual interest.
- Seasonal Interest: Adds seasonal color and can be used for fall-themed garden displays.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for cut flowers, garden beds, borders, and container planting.
- Variety of Uses: Can be used in landscapes, as a bedding plant, or in cut flower arrangements.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Natural dye for fabrics: The petals of Chrysanthemum 'Princess Anne' can be used to create a natural yellow or gold dye for coloring textiles.
- Decoration in the food and beverage industry: Petals can be used to decorate cakes, desserts, or cocktails, adding an elegant and edible touch.
- Photography prop: Due to their vibrant colors and large blooms, these chrysanthemums can serve as a striking subject or backdrop in floral photography.
- Companion planting: Chrysanthemum 'Princess Anne' can be used in gardens to help deter pests from other plants with their strong scent.
- Art supplies: The petals can be used to create natural watercolor paints or to add textures in mixed media artwork.
- Fragrance sachets: Dried chrysanthemum petals can be included in sachets to freshen up drawers and closets.
- Craft projects: Petals and leaves can be used for making bookmarks, greeting cards, or pressed flower arrangements.
- Special events: Chrysanthemum 'Princess Anne' can be used for throwing during celebrations instead of rice or confetti.
- Biodegradable confetti: Dried petals can serve as eco-friendly confetti for weddings or other festivities.
- Soil health indicator: Chrysanthemums can be used as bioindicators to monitor the presence of pollutants in the soil.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
Chrysanthemums are believed to bring happiness and laughter into the home; in Feng Shui, they are often used to foster a sense of ease and well-being. They can be placed in areas that require uplifting energy, such as living rooms, to invite positive chi into the space. The color of the chrysanthemum should also be considered, as different colors correspond to different elements and areas of the Bagua map. For instance, yellow chrysanthemums can be placed in the center of the home to promote health and balance.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Longevity and Immortality: Chrysanthemums have been associated with long life and immortality due to their hardy nature and ability to withstand the first frosts of fall.
- Royalty and Nobility: With a name like 'Princess Anne', this particular chrysanthemum embodies the grace and stature associated with royalty and is often seen as a symbol of nobility and refinement.
- Rejuvenation and Recovery: Chrysanthemums are known to bloom in the late autumn when many other plants are dying, hence they symbolize the power of recovery or bouncing back from adversity.
- Happiness and Joy: In general, chrysanthemums are seen as flowers that bring happiness and joy to homes, attributed to their bright and cheery appearance.
- Loyalty and Devotion: Due to their perennial nature and the longevity of their blooms, chrysanthemums also represent loyalty and devoted love.
- Water
Mums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Princess Anne', need even moisture and should be watered regularly throughout the growing season. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged by providing about 1 inch of water per week, depending on weather conditions. During hot, dry spells, watering may need to be increased to twice a week using approximately 0.5 to 0.75 gallons for an average-sized plant each time. Decrease watering in the fall to help harden off the plants for winter.
- Light
Mums thrive in full sun conditions, so place Chrysanthemum 'Princess Anne' where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for this plant is in a location that is bright and receives morning sun, which is usually less intense and less likely to scorch the leaves than the afternoon sun. Avoid locations that are excessively shaded, as this can lead to poor bloom development and a leggy growth habit.
- Temperature
The ideal growing conditions for mums, including Chrysanthemum 'Princess Anne', range from 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 60 to 65 degrees at night. Mums are hardy and can survive temperatures down to around 20 degrees but should be protected from frost to prevent damage to the blooms. To prolong flowering, avoid exposure to extreme heat or cold.
- Pruning
Prune Chrysanthemum 'Princess Anne' to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch back the tips of new growth in late spring and early summer, repeating every few weeks until mid-summer. Stop pruning by early August to allow flower buds to form. This method also removes any weak or dead stems, improving overall plant health.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Mums prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH around 6.5. A mix of garden soil, compost, and peat moss is ideal to retain moisture and provide nutrients.
- Repotting
Mums should be repotted every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current pot to refresh the soil and encourage growth.
- Humidity & Misting
Mums thrive best in moderate humidity levels around 40-60%, avoiding overly dry or highly humid environments.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright, indirect light with good airflow.
Outdoor
Full sun, sheltered from strong winds, well-drained spot.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
- Life cycle
The Chrysanthemum 'Princess Anne' begins its life cycle as a seed, which when sown in fertile, well-drained soil and provided with warmth and moisture, will germinate into a seedling. As the seedling matures, it develops into a vegetative stage, with characteristic dark green leaves and a sturdy stem, given adequate light and nutrients. The plant enters the budding stage as daylight decreases, usually in late summer to early fall, where flower buds form and prepare to blossom. It reaches full bloom during the autumn, showcasing a profusion of pink or yellow flowers that attract pollinators. After flowering, the Princess Anne chrysanthemum enters a period of senescence; the blooms fade, and the plant may either die back if treated as an annual or enter dormancy if it's being cultivated as a perennial in appropriate climates. If the plant survives winter, it will regrow from its root system in spring and the cycle begins anew.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Chrysanthemum 'Princess Anne', also widely known as the hardy garden mum or florist's chrysanthemum, is typically propagated through division. Division is ideally done in the spring, just as the new growth begins to emerge. To propagate through division, carefully dig up the entire plant, ensuring that you take up as much of the root system as possible. Using a sharp knife or spade, divide the plant into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. Replant each division promptly, maintaining the same soil level as before. Water the new plants thoroughly to help them establish. This method of propagation is favored because it helps rejuvenate older plants while also creating new ones, and ensures the offspring are true to the parent plant.