Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Red Resilient' (4b)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Red Resilient', commonly known as mum, is a flowering plant that boasts a vibrant display of rich, red blooms. Each flower is composed of numerous small, tightly-packed petals that radiate outward from the center, creating a dense, pompom-like effect. The petals have a velvety texture, and they can vary from deep crimson to a brighter red, depending on the growing conditions and the maturity of the flower. The leaves of the plant are a deep, lush green with a slightly serrated edge, providing a striking contrast against the red flowers. The foliage can appear thick and bushy, serving as a backdrop that highlights the plant's vivid coloration. The overall appearance of the Chrysanthemum 'Red Resilient' is a balance of bold and bright flowers paired with sturdy, verdant foliage, often making it a favorite for gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their floral displays.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mum, Hardy Chrysanthemum, Garden Mum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Red Resilient'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Chrysanthemum 'Red Resilient' is chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums are generally considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant can lead to gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some cases, contact with the plant's sap can cause dermatitis or skin irritation. While serious complications are rare, it is still advised to avoid ingesting this plant and to handle it with care, particularly if you have sensitive skin.
To pets
The common name for Chrysanthemum 'Red Resilient' is chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums can be toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. The toxicity is due to pyrethrins and other compounds that can be harmful if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, and skin rashes if there is dermal exposure. In severe cases, ingestion of chrysanthemums can lead to depression, hypothermia, hypersalivation, and in extremely rare cases, seizures. If you suspect your pet has ingested chrysanthemums, it is important to contact a veterinarian promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1-3 feet (30-90 cm)
Spread
1-3 feet (30-90 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal - Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, add a splash of vibrant red color to gardens and landscapes.
- Extended Blooming Season - Mums typically bloom from late summer to fall, offering color when many other plants are beginning to decline.
- Cold Tolerance - As suggested by the variety 'Red Resilient', these plants are bred for hardiness and can withstand the early frosts of Zones up to 4b.
- Ease of Care - Mums are relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established in the right conditions.
- Attracts Pollinators - Mums attract bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems and pollination in gardens.
- Versatility - These plants can be grown in borders, containers, or as a part of a mass planting for visual impact.
- Drought Resistance - Once established, mums have moderate drought tolerance, making them suitable for drier climates.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The petals of chrysanthemums can be used to add a splash of color to salads and culinary dishes, providing an aesthetically pleasing touch to meals.
- Chrysanthemum blossoms can serve as a natural dye for fabrics, imparting a soft yellow to golden hue depending upon the processing.
- They can be a crucial element in a sensory garden due to their vibrant colors and distinct scent, which can provide a calming effect to visitors.
- Used in compost, chrysanthemum remnants can contribute essential nutrients back into the soil as they decompose.
- They can act as indicator plants in a garden, as their susceptibility to certain pests can provide early warning signs to gardeners.
- Chrysanthemum plants can be used in companion planting to help reduce aphid populations as they contain a chemical that repels these pests.
- With their varied and rich colors, they can be used in crafting natural inks for artistic purposes.
- The robust stems of chrysanthemums can be dried and used in basketry or as a natural filler in floral arrangements.
- As part of a butterfly garden, chrysanthemums can attract pollinators and beneficial insects that aid in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
- Chrysanthemums can be part of a natural pest deterrent strategy when used in landscaping around vegetable gardens or outdoor living areas.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is associated with happiness and well-being in Feng Shui. It is recommended to place red Chrysanthemums in the living room or areas of the house where you want to invite joy, strong positive energy, and an aura of festivity. These plants are known to purify the air and their fiery color can attract good luck and repel negative energy.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and well-being in many cultures due to their ability to bloom in autumn, often outlasting many other flowers.
- Rebirth: As perennials that return year after year, chrysanthemums symbolize rebirth and a renewal of life.
- Joy: The bright and cheerful appearance of the chrysanthemum, especially in vibrant red, is commonly linked to bringing joy and optimism.
- Love: In some cultures, red chrysanthemums are a symbol of love and deep passion, similar to the way red roses are often used to express love.
- Beauty in retirement: Because chrysanthemums bloom in the fall, they are sometimes used to represent the beauty and grace in later years or retirement.
WaterMums, also known as Chrysanthemum 'Red Resilient', require consistent moisture and should be watered deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In general, this might be roughly once a week, but you should check more frequently during hot, dry periods. It's best to water the plant at its base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease. On average, mums need about one gallon of water per watering session, ensuring that the water reaches the root zone. Over-watering can result in root rot, so it is crucial to allow the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions.
LightMums thrive in full sunlight, so the 'Red Resilient' cultivar should be placed in a location where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot would be where the plant is exposed to the morning sun, which is less intense than the afternoon sun. However, mums can also tolerate partial shade, particularly in regions with very intense afternoon sun.
TemperatureMums are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures; however, the 'Red Resilient' variety does best in cooler conditions. They can survive minimum winter temperatures down to -30°F, and during the growing season, they prefer daytime temperatures between 70°F and 75°F. To promote vigorous growth and flowering, it's best to keep mums away from extreme heat and to provide adequate water during high temperatures.
PruningPruning Mums helps to promote bushier growth and prevent legginess. The 'Red Resilient' should be pinched back in late spring or early summer once they reach six inches in height, removing the top one to two inches of growth. Repeat the pinching every few weeks until mid-July, which encourages a denser habit and more blooms come fall. The best time for major pruning is after the flowering is over, typically in late fall or early winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining soil with good organic matter. A mixture of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss or coco coir, and one part perlite or sand works well. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth of the Mums.
RepottingMums, often grown as annuals, don't typically require repotting. If grown as perennials, repotting every 2-3 years in spring is beneficial to refresh the soil and divide if necessary.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer moderate humidity levels. Aim for a relative humidity of around 60-70% for the best growth conditions, avoiding overly dry or excessively moist air which can cause stress.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Mums in bright, indirect light, away from drafts and heat sources.
Outdoor
Plant Mums in a sunny spot with some afternoon shade, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Red Resilient', commonly known as the hardy chrysanthemum or garden mum, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in early spring, given appropriate temperatures and soil conditions. The seedling emerges and develops into a vegetative plant, forming a rosette of leaves close to the ground. Throughout the spring and summer, the plant grows, producing more leaves and stems, and if it is a perennial variety in zone 4b, it may enter a period of dormancy during the winter months. As the days shorten and temperatures drop in late summer to fall, the chrysanthemum initiates flowering, developing vibrant red blossoms that attract pollinators. Following pollination, seeds are produced and dispersed, completing the reproductive stage of the cycle. The plant may die back with the onset of cold weather in winter, although in zone 4b with proper winter protection it may survive and regrow the following spring, continuing its perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Chrysanthemum 'Red Resilient', known commonly as mums, is through division. This is typically done in the spring after any threat of frost has passed and the plant has started to show new growth. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire mum plant, preserving as much of the root system as possible. Gently separate the plant into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a healthy root system. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches (roughly 45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow sufficient room for growth. Water them thoroughly after planting to help establish the new divisions. This method is quick, easy, and provides a high success rate for establishing new mums in the garden.
