Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Raynor' (21c)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Raynor' is an ornamental plant well known for its lush, eye-catching flowers. The blossoms of this particular variety possess a deep ruby hue, lending a sense of warmth and vibrancy wherever they are planted. These flowers typically have a dense arrangement of petals, often appearing to be layered or tiered, which creates a pom-pom-like effect that is visually appealing and plush to the touch. The petals themselves have a velvety texture, with each individual petal tapering to a gentle point, adding to the flower's intricate appearance. The center of the bloom, where the petals congregate, is usually a slightly darker shade, providing a rich contrast and depth to the overall flower color. This creates a mesmerizing focal point in the floral display. The leaves that accompany the flowers are deep green, with a glossy sheen, and they have a slightly serrated edge. They are arranged alternately along the stems, providing a lush backdrop for the vivid blooms. The foliage is dense, contributing to the plant's overall robustness and healthy look. Together, the vibrant ruby flowers and the rich green foliage make Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Raynor' a standout plant that can bring a pop of color and a touch of elegance to gardens, borders, and floral arrangements.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Mum, Chrysanthemum.
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Raynor'
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are not highly toxic to humans, but they can cause skin irritation in some individuals with sensitive skin. If ingested, they might lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, although serious cases are rare.
To pets
Mums are toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. If ingested, symptoms of poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion could potentially lead to more serious conditions such as liver failure, but this is quite rare. It is important to keep mums out of reach of pets to prevent any possible toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Chrysanthemums, commonly known as 'mums', are popular for their vibrant and colorful flowers which can enhance the beauty of any garden.
- Variety of Uses: 'Mums' can be used in beds, borders, and containers and are suitable for a cut flower garden, allowing for diverse gardening and floral arrangements.
- Long Blooming Period: They are known for having a long flowering season, often from late summer until the onset of winter, providing color in the garden when many other plants have ceased blooming.
- Pollinator Friendly: Chrysanthemums attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects which are important for pollination in the garden.
- Easy to Grow: 'Mums' are relatively easy to cultivate, requiring minimal care once established and are resilient to many common garden pests and diseases.
- Seasonal Celebrations: They are often associated with autumn and are popular choices for festivals and decorations during this season.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photographic Subject: Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Raynor' with its vivid coloration makes an excellent subject for botanical photography, providing striking imagery for enthusiasts and professionals.
- Artistic Inspiration: The deep red petals can inspire artists for paintings, fabric designs, or any artwork where floral patterns and colors are needed.
- Colorant: The petals could potentially be used to create a natural dye for textiles or paper, contributing to sustainable crafting and art processes.
- Educational Tool: This variety of chrysanthemum can be used in horticultural education to demonstrate plant breeding and hybridization techniques.
- Culinary Garnish: Though not used for flavor, the petals can be used as an ornamental garnish for salads and desserts due to their vibrant color.
- Symbolic Gift: In some cultures, chrysanthemums are given as gifts to symbolize longevity and joy, making this particular variety a meaningful present.
- Event Decor: Stems of 'Ruby Raynor' can be used in floral arrangements for celebrations, adding a splash of red to event decor.
- Craft Material: Dried petals and flowers can be used in scrapbooking, card making, or other papercrafts, giving a unique and natural touch.
- Fragrance: While not common, the subtle scent of the flowers can be captured in potpourri mixes.
- Bookmark: Pressed flowers or petals from the 'Ruby Raynor' can be used to create beautiful and natural bookmarks.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is often associated with joy and the energy of happiness in Feng Shui. It can be used to uplift the energy of a space, bringing in positive vibes and counteracting negative energies. Place Chrysanthemums in areas where you want to promote good health, balance, and a flow of positive Chi, such as the living room or near the front entrance. Its vibrant red color can also introduce the fire element, which is good for fame and reputation.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: The chrysanthemum is often associated with long life and well-being in many cultures, particularly in Asia.
- Rejuvenation: As the chrysanthemum blooms in autumn, it symbolizes the idea of remaining vibrant and lively even as the colder months approach.
- Nobility: In some historical contexts, such as in Japan, the chrysanthemum is a noble flower, often connected with the royal family and used in imperial symbols.
- Death: In some European countries, chrysanthemums are seen as a flower to honor the dead and are common in funerary arrangements.
- Loyalty and Devotion: Sometimes chrysanthemums symbolize commitment and steadfastness in a relationship or friendship.
- Friendship: The flower can represent honesty, friendship, and support among friends.
- Joy: The bright and varied colors of chrysanthemums represent happiness and positivity.
WaterMums, like Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Raynor', require consistent moisture, so water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This is typically about once a week, but may vary depending on climate and weather conditions. When watering, soak the soil thoroughly until water runs out of the bottom of the pot, which may equate to about one to two gallons for a large pot. Avoid watering the foliage directly to prevent disease. During the active growing season in spring and summer, they may need more frequent watering, potentially twice a week, especially in hot, dry weather.
LightMums prefer bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. Place Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Raynor' in a location where it receives at least 5 to 6 hours of sunlight per day, but is shielded from the harsh afternoon sun. An east or west-facing window is typically an ideal spot for mums to receive the appropriate amount of light without getting scorched.
TemperatureChrysanthemum 'Ruby Raynor', like most mums, thrive in cooler conditions. They perform best in temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and can tolerate nighttime temperatures down to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme heat can be detrimental, so avoid placing mums where temperatures exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit for prolonged periods. These plants can tolerate a light frost but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit can be harmful.
PruningPrune Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Raynor' to maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. The best time for heavy pruning is in early spring, as new growth begins to appear. Pinch back the tips of stems throughout the spring to early summer to encourage branching and a more compact plant. Deadheading, or the removal of spent blossoms, should be done regularly to enhance the appearance and encourage more blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter such as compost or peat moss. The best soil mix for Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Raynor,' commonly known as the Mum, is one that offers good drainage, yet retains some moisture. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or sand would be ideal. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years to ensure they have enough room to grow and adequate nutrients. For Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Raynor,' commonly known as Mum, this is a good opportunity to refresh the soil and prune any dead roots, promoting healthier growth.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemum 'Ruby Raynor,' commonly known as Mums, prefers moderate humidity levels around 40-60%. It's important to maintain these levels for optimal growth, but they are generally flexible enough to adapt to average indoor humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Mums in bright, indirect sunlight with good air circulation.
Outdoor
Choose a sunny spot with afternoon shade; water when topsoil is dry.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemums, including the 'Ruby Raynor' variety, begin their life cycle as seeds or cuttings. After planting, they enter a vegetative stage where they establish a root system and produce shoots and leaves. As they mature, the plants enter the budding stage, where flower buds start to form, usually triggered by shorter daylight hours. This is followed by the blooming stage, where the distinct 'Ruby Raynor' flowers open and display their characteristic color and form. After blooming, the plant enters a senescence phase where the flowers wilt and the plant prepares for dormancy, especially in regions with cold winters. Chrysanthemums can then either be cut back to ground level to overwinter or, if they're annuals, complete their life cycle and die, leaving seeds for the next generation.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Raynor', commonly known just as Chrysanthemum or mums, is best propagated during late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The most popular method of propagation for this plant is through stem cuttings. This involves taking a 4 to 6 inch (approximately 10 to 15 cm) cutting from a healthy, non-flowering stem. The bottom leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that the remaining leaves are above the soil surface. The soil is kept moist but not soggy to prevent rot, and the cutting is placed in a location with indirect sunlight. In a few weeks, roots should develop, after which the new Chrysanthemum can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the garden.
