Mum Chrysanthemum 'Red Wendy' (29c)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Red Wendy' is a striking flowering plant known for its vibrant color and lush appearance. This plant showcases a profusion of bold, red flowers that have a dense arrangement of petals, creating a plush, cushion-like effect. Each individual flower is meticulously shaped with the petals spiraling outward from the center, giving it a harmonious and full-bodied appearance. The leaves of the Chrysanthemum 'Red Wendy' are a deep green, which contrasts beautifully with the red blooms, making the color pop even more. The foliage is divided into leaflets with toothed edges, possessing a slightly glossy texture that can catch the light, adding to the plant's overall lustrous look. Gardeners often appreciate this plant for its ability to bring a splash of warm, autumnal color to gardens and landscapes. Its classic, opulent flowers offer an eye-catching display that can stand as a focal point or blend harmoniously with other fall-flowering plants. With its rich hues and dense flowering habits, Chrysanthemum 'Red Wendy' is a popular choice for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Garden Mum, Florist's Chrysanthemum, Hardy Chrysanthemum, Mum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Red Wendy'
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, are not highly toxic to humans, but they can cause dermatitis in some individuals who have sensitive skin or are allergic to the plant. If ingested, they can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. While poisoning from ingesting mums is rare and typically not severe, it's still advised to keep these plants out of reach of small children who may accidentally ingest them.
To pets
Mums are toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If a pet ingests part of a mum plant, they can experience symptoms of poisoning, which may include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious conditions such as depression and loss of balance. It's crucial to ensure that these plants are kept away from pets to avoid accidental ingestion and a trip to the veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, add vibrant color to the garden, with 'Red Wendy' offering deep red blooms that stand out in any floral setting.
- Versatility: Mums are suitable for container gardening, borders, and garden beds, making them adaptable to various landscape designs.
- Plant Longevity: As a perennial variety, 'Red Wendy' can return year after year, offering long-term enjoyment without needing to be replanted annually.
- Fall Interest: Mums are known for their late blooming season, providing color and interest in the garden when many other plants are fading.
- Easy to Grow: Chrysanthemums are not demanding and can thrive in a variety of soil types and conditions with minimal care.
- Pollinator-Friendly: The flowers can attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, supporting biodiversity within the garden.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The petals of chrysanthemums can be used to naturally dye fabrics or papers, giving them a soft, yellow to golden hue.
- Culinary Decoration: Petals of 'Red Wendy' chrysanthemums can embellish salads, desserts, and cocktails, offering an exotic touch with their vibrant colors.
- Aromatic Additions: The leaves and flowers can be dried and added to potpourri mixes for a pleasant, subtly spicy fragrance.
- Holiday Decor: With their autumnal colors, 'Red Wendy' chrysanthemums are great for decorating during fall celebrations like Thanksgiving.
- Artistic Inspiration: The striking appearance of chrysanthemums inspires artists and photographers looking for vibrant subjects in their work.
- Garden Compost: Once the plant has completed its lifecycle, it can be added to compost bins to enrich garden soil.
- Natural Insecticide: Certain compounds found in chrysanthemums are used in making natural insect repellents for gardens.
- Bookmark Creation: Pressed chrysanthemum flowers can be laminated or enclosed in paper to create unique and beautiful bookmarks.
- Crafting Pressed Flower Art: 'Red Wendy' chrysanthemum petals can be pressed and used in crafting, such as in making greeting cards or decorating picture frames.
- Symbolic Gift: In some cultures, chrysanthemums are given as gifts to symbolize longevity and joy, making them meaningful presents for various occasions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChrysanthemums are considered strong symbols of longevity and joy in Feng Shui. To use the Chrysanthemum, place it in the living room or any area that requires fresh, positive energy and balance. The fiery color of 'Red Wendy' adds Yang energy, which can energize and introduce vibrancy when used in moderation.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Loyalty and Devotion: Chrysanthemums are often associated with loyalty and deep passion, reflecting the idea of standing by a loved one through all circumstances.
- Love and Affection: The red variety of chrysanthemums, such as 'Red Wendy,' specifically symbolizes love and deep affection, making it a common choice for romantic gestures.
- Longevity and Immortality: In many cultures, chrysanthemums are seen as symbols of long life and immortality due to their hardiness and ability to bloom into the late fall.
- Happiness and Joy: Chrysanthemums, with their bright and cheerful appearance, are thought to bring happiness and light into one's life, evoking feelings of joy.
- Rebirth and Renewal: As these flowers often bloom in autumn, they can symbolize the idea of rebirth or the renewal of life.
WaterMums, like the Chrysanthemum 'Red Wendy', should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Generally, this means watering them about once a week, but this can vary based on temperature and humidity. The method of watering should be direct to the soil to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease. When watering, aim to use about one gallon of water per plant to ensure that water reaches the deep roots, adjusting for size as the plant grows. During hot spells or in very sandy soil, check the plant more frequently, as you may need to water every 3 to 5 days.
LightMums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Red Wendy', thrive in full sun conditions. They perform best when they receive at least 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot would be in an area that gets morning sunlight and is shaded during the hottest part of the afternoon to protect the blooms from extreme heat.
TemperatureMums, like Chrysanthemum 'Red Wendy', prefer a temperate range with ideal temperatures between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of about 32 degrees Fahrenheit and a maximum temperature of around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Mums generally do not do well in extreme heat or frost conditions, so positioning them in a location where temperature fluctuations are minimal is best for their growth.
PruningPruning Mums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Red Wendy', encourages bushiness and prevents legginess. Pinch back the tips of the stems by about one inch once they reach 6 inches in height, continuing to do so every 2 to 3 weeks until midsummer. This makes plants more compact and leads to more prolific bloom in the fall, which is their peak blooming time.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Chrysanthemum 'Red Wendy', commonly known as mums, should be well-draining and fertile, with a composition of equal parts peat, perlite, and loam. The pH level ideal for mums is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingMums should be repotted annually to replenish the soil and provide room for growth. It is best to repot Chrysanthemum 'Red Wendy' after the blooming cycle, typically in early spring before the onset of active growth.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemum 'Red Wendy', or mums, thrive best in moderate humidity levels. Aim to maintain indoor humidity around 60-70% for optimal growth, avoiding overly dry or excessively moist environments which can lead to plant stress.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure moderate humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, shelter from harsh winds, and space 18-24 inches apart.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycle'Red Wendy' Chrysanthemum, commonly known as mums or chrysanths, begins its life as a seed, though commercial varieties are often propagated from cuttings for uniformity. After germination or rooting, the seedling or cutting grows into a vegetative state where foliage develops extensively. As the plant matures, it enters the budding stage, where flower buds start to form, typically triggered by shorter day lengths as the season transitions into fall. Blooming follows, during which the distinctive red flowers of 'Red Wendy' unfold and may last for several weeks, depending on environmental conditions. After blooming, the plant enters a period of senescence; if it is not an annual variety, it may enter dormancy over winter. With proper care or in suitable climates, the plant can regenerate from its root system or survive via clumps that can be divided in spring, continuing its cycle for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to early autumn
The Chrysanthemum 'Red Wendy' is best propagated by taking cuttings, which is the most popular method for this variety. This process generally begins in the early spring when the plant is producing new, vigorous growth. A gardener would take a stem cutting about 3 to 5 inches long, making sure to include at least two to three sets of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end of the stem is then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting is planted in a moist potting mix, covered loosely with a plastic bag to maintain humidity, and kept in indirect light. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, at which point the cutting can be transferred to a larger pot or into the garden. Careful monitoring of moisture levels is essential during this rooting phase, ensuring the cutting does not dry out nor become waterlogged.
