Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Shepherd'
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Shepherd' is a charming variety of the well-known chrysanthemum, often celebrated for its delightful and showy flowers. This particular cultivar exhibits a vibrant array of flowers that come in a multitude of colors, ranging from bold, deep reds to softer hues of pink, yellow, and white. The blooms themselves can be quite intricate, with layers of petals that sometimes appear ruffled or quilled, creating a rich texture that is visually stunning. The formation of the flowers can be either tightly packed with small petals or open with larger, more pronounced petals, providing a voluminous and dense floral display. The foliage of the Chrysanthemum 'Shepherd' is also notable, typically displaying a deep green color that creates a perfect backdrop for the contrasting blooms. The leaves are often lobed or deeply cut, adding to the overall lush appearance of the plant. When in full bloom, the plant presents a splendid show that attracts a variety of pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, contributing to the ecosystem's diversity. Overall, the Chrysanthemum 'Shepherd' is a hardy plant, prized for its magnificent flowers and ability to bring a burst of color to gardens and landscapes. It's a popular choice for ornamental purposes and is often used in floral arrangements due to its aesthetic appeal and longevity after being cut. This plant typically thrives in conditions that offer ample sunlight, and when well-cared for, it can provide a delightful display that is sure to be the centerpiece of any garden.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mum, Chrysanthemum
Common names
Dendranthema 'Shepherd', Leucanthemum 'Shepherd'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Chrysanthemum has low toxicity to humans. Ingesting any parts of the plant, particularly in large quantities, could potentially cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Skin contact with Chrysanthemum leaves and flowers may occasionally cause allergic skin reactions in some sensitive individuals.
To pets
Chrysanthemum is toxic to pets like dogs and cats. The toxic compounds in the plant, primarily pyrethrins and other related compounds, can cause symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, exposure can lead to more serious nervous system effects like seizures. It is advised to prevent pets from ingestion and contact with Chrysanthemum plants to avoid these possible consequences.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
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 color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes with its vibrant blooms.
- Versatile Landscaping: Can be used in borders, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Seasonal Interest: Typically flowers in the fall, providing late-season color when many other plants are declining.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects to the garden.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, many chrysanthemum varieties can withstand periods of low water availability.
- Easy Propagation: Can be easily propagated through division, allowing gardeners to expand their collection or share with others.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care beyond basic watering, fertilizing, and occasional deadheading to promote further blooming.
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 in companion planting to deter pests from other plants in the garden. Their natural chemical properties make them excellent at keeping certain harmful insects at bay.
- These flowers can be used as a natural dye for fabrics. The petals, especially of the darker colored varieties, have been used historically to impart a yellow to greenish hue to textiles.
- Chrysanthemum petals can be included in potpourri mixes for their fragrance and color. They maintain their color and shape quite well when dried.
- The flowers can be pressed and used in decorative crafts, such as in the creation of herbariums or as embellishments in scrapbooking and other paper crafts.
- They are often used in floral arrangements and bouquets not only for their beauty but also as a symbol of longevity and joy in many cultures.
- Chrysanthemum blooms can be floated in bowls of water to create simple yet elegant centerpieces for tables and events.
- The petals are edible and can be used to garnish salads, desserts, and drinks, adding a splash of color and a mild flavor.
- Chrysanthemum leaves have been used traditionally in some cultures as a potherb, boiled and eaten much like greens.
- In the classroom or at home, growing chrysanthemums can be a learning tool for children, teaching them about plant biology and the responsibilities of gardening.
- Photographers and artists may use chrysanthemums as a subject in their work, capturing their intricate details and vibrant colors.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChrysanthemums are known in Feng Shui to bring happiness and laughter into the home, and are often used to strengthen positive energy, especially in the living room or family areas. It is recommended to place them in areas where lively energy is desired or where relaxation and recovery take place as they are believed to bring about a light-hearted and easy atmosphere.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and health, due in part to their hardy nature and the fact that they bloom well into the autumn months.
- Rejuvenation: As flowers that bloom in the fall, chrysanthemums symbolize the idea of revival or bouncing back, reflecting the cycle of life.
- Good Fortune: In some cultures, chrysanthemums are seen as a symbol of luck and are given as gifts to wish someone well.
- Nobility: In Japan, the chrysanthemum is a noble flower, representing perfection and, more specifically, the royal family.
- Loyalty: The flower's ability to bloom year after year expresses the idea of fidelity and steadfastness in relationships.
WaterMums, like the Chrysanthemum 'Shepherd', prefer even moisture and should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently damp but not waterlogged. Generally, this involves watering deeply once a week with about one gallon of water per plant, depending on weather conditions. During periods of high heat or drought, watering frequency may need to increase to twice a week. It's best to water early in the morning to allow the foliage to dry before nightfall, which helps prevent disease. The key is to ensure that the soil around the roots does not dry out completely, as mums have a shallow root system and can wilt quickly.
LightMums thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The Chrysanthemum 'Shepherd' will flourish the most when placed in an area that is bright and receives plenty of morning light. However, in regions with harsh afternoon sun, providing some partial shade during the hottest part of the day can help protect the plant from extreme heat stress.
TemperatureMums are resilient and can generally withstand a range from about 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but they prefer a more moderate range. For optimal growth, the Chrysanthemum 'Shepherd' enjoys daytime temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit and slightly cooler temperatures at night, though sudden temperature changes can cause stress to the plant.
PruningPruning a Chrysanthemum 'Shepherd' is essential to maintain a bushy, compact shape and encourages more blooms. Pinch back the tips of new growth until the middle of summer, around July, to promote branching. After flowering, prune mums back to the ground once the foliage has died back after frost to help prevent disease and prepare the plant for the next growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A mix of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite in equal parts is ideal. The optimal soil pH for Chrysanthemums is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingMums, like the Chrysanthemum 'Shepherd', should be repotted every one to two years. They benefit from fresh soil and space to grow to maintain health and vigor.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer moderate humidity levels. Aim for a humidity level around 40-60% for optimal growth conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light and ensure good air circulation for Mum indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Mum in a sunny spot with well-draining soil; water regularly.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Chrysanthemum, commonly known as 'mum', begins with seed germination, which requires a well-draining soil mix and consistent moisture. Following germination, seedlings emerge and progress into the vegetative stage, during which they develop a rosette of leaves and a robust root system. As the plant matures, it enters the budding stage, where flower buds form and require adequate light and sometimes pinching to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. The blooming stage ensues, showcasing a vibrant array of flowers that can last for several weeks in the fall. After blooming, the Chrysanthemum enters a period of senescence where the above-ground parts die back with the onset of winter, but the roots remain alive, entering a period of dormancy. In spring, the plant will emerge from dormancy, initiating a new growth cycle if the roots have been protected from freezing temperatures and the plant was properly cared for.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Shepherd', commonly known as mums, can be propagated effectively using cuttings. The ideal time to take cuttings is in spring when the plants have begun to grow and have fresh, new shoots. To propagate mums using cuttings, one should select a healthy stem with several leaves, and cut it just below a leaf node, typically about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in length. It's important to use a sharp, sterile cutting tool to prevent introducing diseases to the cuttings or the parent plant. The lower leaves of the cutting should be removed, and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. Then, the cutting is placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept under high humidity and indirect light until roots have formed, which generally takes a few weeks. Once rooted, the cutting can be transplanted to a larger pot or a prepared garden bed to continue growing into a mature mum plant.
