Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik' (9f)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik' is marked by its vibrant and colorful appearance. The petals often exhibit a striking array of colors, from vivid yellows to rich purples, and can even have multiple colors on a single petal, creating a fascinating gradient effect. These petals are arranged in a dense, layered fashion that gives the flowers a full, lush look. The shape of the petals varies, with some being long and slender, often curling at the tips, while others may be more rounded and spoon-shaped. The center of the flower is typically of a contrasting color, sometimes a deeper hue which adds depth to the flower's appearance. The foliage of the Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik' has a bright to dark green color and tends to be deeply lobed with a slightly serrated edge, adding texture and interest even when the plant is not in bloom. The stems are sturdy and upright, supporting the weight of the blossoms well. Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik' has a substantial presence and its flowers add a punch of color wherever they grow. When in bloom, these plants can create a stunning visual impact, making them popular both in gardens and floral arrangements. Their flowers are also known for their longevity, both on the plant and when cut for indoor enjoyment.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Sputnik Chrysanthemum, Sputnik Mum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik'
ToxicityTo humans
The common chrysanthemum, referred to here, can be mildly toxic if ingested by humans. If parts of the plant are consumed, the most common symptoms may include skin rash if touched, and if ingested, gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. In some cases, it might also cause increased salivation. It's crucial to contact a medical professional if any part of the plant is consumed and symptoms present themselves.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are indeed toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. If your pet ingests any part of the chrysanthemum plant, they may experience drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes, dermatitis from skin contact. In more severe cases, ingestion can lead to a loss of coordination and even seizures. Contact with the plant can cause a mild to severe skin reaction. If you suspect your pet has ingested chrysanthemums, it is important to contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Pest Resistance: Naturally resists many common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Cold Hardy: Can survive in cooler temperatures, making it a good choice for fall plantings.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers are attractive to butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, ideal for busy gardeners or those new to gardening.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor displays.
- Long Blooming: Produces flowers for an extended period, often from late summer into fall.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photographic Backgrounds: Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik' with its vibrant blooms can be used to create stunning backdrops for portrait photography.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may find inspiration in the unique form and color of 'Sputnik', using it as a subject for paintings, drawings, and other art forms.
- Fish Tank Decoration: Non-toxic components of the plant can be used in fish tanks to add natural beauty and provide hiding spaces for fish.
- Dye Production: The petals of Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik' can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics, yarns, or paper.
- Biodegradable Confetti: Dried petals of the flower can be used as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional confetti at celebrations.
- Scented Bookmarks: Petals can be laminated into bookmarks, which gently release the flower's natural fragrance as they are used.
- Natural Insect Repellent: The plant can be placed or planted in outdoor areas to deter certain insects, due to its natural repellent properties.
- Floral Crafts: The blooms can be used for crafting wreaths, floral arrangements, or decorative potpourri.
- Educational Tool: The plant can be used in schools to teach horticulture, plant biology, and the life cycle of flowering plants.
- Gourmet Garnish: Edible varieties of chrysanthemums can be used to garnish dishes, although 'Sputnik' specifically would need to be verified as safe to consume.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui practice to bring happiness and laughter to the home, as well as to promote a long life and good luck. It is often placed in areas where energy needs to be lifted, especially in the living room to encourage relaxation and tranquility.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Loyalty and Devotion: Chrysanthemums, often simply called "mums," are symbolic of loyalty and devoted love. Their full, round blooms represent the heart full of emotion.
- Longevity and Immortality: In many Asian cultures, mums are a symbol of long life and perennial vitality, often associated with immortality and longevity due to their hardiness and health-giving properties.
- Rejuvenation and Recovery: Chrysanthemums are believed to represent rejuvenation and recovery. Their patterns of flowering in the late autumn can symbolize the idea of thriving in adverse conditions or bouncing back with resilience.
- Grief and Mourning: In some European cultures, mums are often associated with death and are used to honor the dead or placed on graves. They symbolize grief and the wish to offer comfort in mourning.
- Honesty: Mums also represent honesty in the language of flowers, possibly stemming from the inward focus of their petals.
WaterMums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik', prefer evenly moist soil, so it's important to water them regularly. They should be watered deeply once or twice a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of disease; instead, water at the base of the plant. In terms of quantity, an average mum requires about one gallon of water each week, but this can vary with the size of the plant and the weather conditions. During hot, dry spells, they may need water more frequently.
LightMums thrive in full sun conditions, which means they need at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal spot for a Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik' is in an area where it will receive plenty of morning light and some protection from the intense afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates. Adequate light is crucial for the plant to develop strong stems and a profusion of flowers.
TemperatureMums are hardy in the range of 32°F to 90°F but perform best when the temperatures are within 55°F to 75°F. The Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik' can survive short periods of colder temperatures down to about 20°F, but to ensure the plant's health, try to protect it from extreme cold. Ideal temperatures for growth and flowering are in the middle of this range, where the plant can maximize its blooming potential.
PruningMums, such as the Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik', should be pruned to promote bushier growth and more blooms. Pinching back the growing tips when the plant is about 6 inches tall will encourage branching. Continue to do this every few weeks until midsummer (around July 4th) for optimal results. Pruning also helps maintain the plant's shape and removes any dead or diseased foliage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for a Mum, commonly known as Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik', should be well-draining with a good amount of organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. A mixture of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite in equal parts can work well. The ideal pH for Mums is slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingMums, or Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik', typically require repotting every one to two years. It's best to repot them in the spring before the beginning of the growing season, when you notice the roots crowding the container or the plant outgrowing its current pot.
Humidity & MistingMums, or Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik', prefer average room humidity levels around 40-60%. They do not require high humidity and can tolerate the typical indoor atmosphere well.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Mums in bright indirect light and water regularly.
Outdoor
Mums thrive in full sun with moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik', commonly referred to as the Mum, begins its life cycle as a seed or through vegetative propagation techniques like cuttings. It germinates within one to three weeks in well-draining soil with adequate moisture and warmth. Upon sprouting, the seedling enters a vegetative growth phase, developing a robust root system and foliage in preparation for flowering. As the plant matures and environmental conditions trigger flowering, usually in late summer to fall, it produces distinctive, ornamental blooms that are often vibrant in color. After blooming, the Mum may undergo a period of dormancy, particularly in regions with cold winters, where it may die back to the ground and become dormant until the following spring. Lastly, if the flowering cycle is managed with proper care, deadheading, and sometimes division of clumps, it can re-emerge and continues its life cycle for multiple seasons.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Sputnik', commonly referred to as mums, can be readily propagated by stem cuttings. The optimal time to take cuttings for propagation is in the spring, when the plant's new growth is vigorous and before it sets buds. To propagate mums, select a healthy stem of about 4-6 inches (approximately 10-15 cm) in length, ensuring it has several sets of leaves. Cut the stem just below a leaf node, where the concentration of growth hormones is highest. Remove the lower leaves to prevent them from rotting when planted and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting should then be placed in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix, and kept moist but not saturated. It typically takes a few weeks for the cutting to form roots, at which point it can be transplanted into the garden or a larger pot.
