Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Purple Margaret Dixon'
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Purple Margaret Dixon' is a cultivar known for its distinctive and showy flowers. This plant boasts an extravagant display of vibrant purple blossoms that can add a touch of royalty to any garden space. Each flower is composed of numerous petals that are densely packed, creating a full and rounded appearance. The petals have a velvety texture and exhibit shades of purple ranging from deep plums to softer lilac hues, often with a gradient effect. The center of the flowers typically has a small, visible disk that is surrounded by the flamboyant petals. The foliage of 'Purple Margaret Dixon' is green, with leaves that are generally deeply lobed and have a slightly serrated edge, giving the plant a lush, textured look even when it is not in bloom. The overall impression of the Chrysanthemum 'Purple Margaret Dixon' is one of opulence and abundance, contributing a striking burst of color to a garden's palette.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Mum, Florist's Chrysanthemum, Hardy Chrysanthemum, Mum
Common names
Dendranthema grandiflorum, Chrysanthemum morifolium, Chrysanthemum indicum.
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, including the 'Purple Margaret Dixon', are not highly toxic to humans, but they can cause skin irritation in individuals with certain sensitivities or allergies. If ingested, some people might experience mild gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is rare for severe symptoms to occur unless a large quantity is consumed.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs, due to the presence of pyrethrins, a natural insecticide found in the flowers. If a pet ingests chrysanthemums, symptoms of poisoning may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to tremors or seizures. Immediate veterinary attention is recommended if you suspect your pet has consumed this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Spread
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to gardens with its vibrant purple flowers and lush green foliage.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination and maintaining biodiversity.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides a burst of color in the fall when many other plants are beginning to fade.
- Versatility: Can be grown in garden beds, containers, and as cut flowers for arrangements.
- Low Maintenance: Generally requires minimal care like occasional watering and deadheading to promote blooming.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of dry weather, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Cold Resistance: Capable of surviving in cooler temperatures, which can extend the blooming season.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Chrysanthemums can be used as natural insect repellents. They contain pyrethrins which can deter pests like mosquitoes, ants, and ticks.
- In some cultures, chrysanthemum flowers are used to make a natural dye for fabrics, imparting a range of colors from golden to green, depending on the mordant used.
- The petals of chrysanthemums are sometimes used in ornamental crafts, such as creating floral arrangements or pressing for scrapbooking and stationary designs.
- Chrysanthemum 'Purple Margaret Dixon' can be used as a natural indicator for pH balance because the pigments in the petals may change color in response to acidity or alkalinity.
- The flowers can be used in the art of ikebana, which is the Japanese art of flower arrangement where they hold symbolic meanings and are appreciated for their form and balance.
- In some regions, chrysanthemum blooms are used for decorating floats during festivals or parades, due to their vibrant colors and large blooms.
- Edible varieties of chrysanthemums are sometimes used to infuse a floral note into speciality liquors or cocktails for botanical flavoring.
- The petals of certain chrysanthemum flowers can be used in confetti, providing an environmentally-friendly option as they are biodegradable.
- Chrysanthemum leaves and flowers are sometimes incorporated into ornamental gardens designed for sensory experiences, contributing to the visual and olfactory ambiance.
- In textile art, chrysanthemum petals can be used as a stencil or a template for embroidery patterns, providing a natural floral motif.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui to bring happiness and laughter into the home, as well as to promote longevity and ease stress. It is believed that placing chrysanthemums in the living room can create yang energy, thus attracting good fortune.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Loyalty: Chrysanthemums are often associated with loyalty due to their ability to bloom in the autumn, well after many other flowers have wilted, representing fidelity and devotion.
- Happiness: They are commonly given as gifts to convey joy and to bring happiness into the home, as their full, round blooms are thought to encapsulate cheerfulness.
- Longevity: In many cultures, especially in Asia, chrysanthemums symbolize longevity and health, possibly because they have a long flowering life and their medicinal properties.
- Rejuvenation: They often signify a life of ease and a wish for rejuvenation, as these flowers are also linked with the theme of immortality and the renewing power of nature.
- Nobility: In some societies, chrysanthemums are symbolic of nobility and elegance, owing to their sophisticated appearance and royal connotations, particularly with the purple variety which is often associated with nobility.
- Death: In several European countries, chrysanthemums are a symbol of death and are used for funerary bouquets or on graves, marking respect and remembrance for the departed.
WaterMums, including the 'Purple Margaret Dixon', have watering needs that can be quite particular during their active growing season. They should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which can be about once or twice a week depending on climate conditions like heat and humidity. Apply water directly to the base of the plant, avoiding the foliage, to reduce the risk of disease. Each watering session should provide enough water to allow moisture to reach the root zone. For potted specimens, this might be around 1 gallon of water for a 12-inch pot, adjusted depending on the size of the container and ambient temperatures.
LightMums thrive best in conditions where they can receive full sun for at least six hours a day. The 'Purple Margaret Dixon' should be placed in a spot where it is exposed to direct sunlight through most of the day, as ample sunlight promotes strong growth and vibrant blooms. However, in regions with extremely hot climates, some light afternoon shade can help protect the plants from excessive stress.
TemperatureMums, including the 'Purple Margaret Dixon', prefer moderate temperatures and can tolerate a range from approximately 32 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the ideal temperature range for active growth and flowering is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme temperatures on either end of the spectrum can cause stress and potentially damage to the plant.
PruningPruning mums, including the 'Purple Margaret Dixon', is important for maintaining a compact, bushy growth habit and promoting abundant blooms. Prune in early summer, pinching back the tips of branches to encourage branching. Additionally, after the flowering season, prune away spent blooms to tidy the plant and prepare it for the next blooming cycle. The best time for major pruning is in the spring when new growth appears.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for a chrysanthemum, commonly known as mum, should be well-draining and fertile. A blend of peat, perlite, and organic compost is ideal. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0, to promote healthy growth.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years to replenish the soil and accommodate root growth. This helps to keep them healthy and flowering prolifically.
Humidity & MistingMums thrive in moderate humidity conditions, typically between 40-60%. Avoid overly dry air which can cause stress and leaf drop.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep mums in bright indirect light, water when top soil feels dry.
Outdoor
Plant mums in well-draining soil with full to partial sun.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Chrysanthemum 'Purple Margaret Dixon', commonly known as mums, begins with seed germination or vegetative propagation through cuttings or division. After planting, the seed or cuttings develop a root system and sprout leaves, entering the vegetative growth stage where the plant focuses on producing foliage. As the plant matures, it enters the budding stage where flower buds start to form, typically induced by shorter day lengths as seen in late summer to early fall. The blooming stage follows, wherein vibrant purple flowers blossom and can last for several weeks. After flowering, the plant enters senescence, where it begins to die back, especially in colder climates where mums may be treated as annuals. If perennial, the plant may go dormant for the winter, storing energy in its roots before re-emerging in the spring to start the cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Late spring
Propogation: Chrysanthemum 'Purple Margaret Dixon', commonly known as mums, is typically propagated through division, which is best done in the spring. To propagate mums by division, carefully dig up the entire plant when new growth begins to show. Gently separate the plant's roots into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a good amount of roots and at least a few shoots. These divisions can then be replanted in well-draining soil, spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This method ensures that the unique characteristics of 'Purple Margaret Dixon' are maintained, as seed propagation can result in variable flower color and form.
