Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Swalwell' (25b)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Swalwell', commonly known as the mum, is known for its vibrant and full-bodied floral display. The plant bears a multitude of blooms that consist of numerous petals tightly packed together, giving it a lush, rounded appearance. These flower heads can come in a variety of colors, often in shades of yellow, pink, purple, red, or white, and sometimes they may feature more than one color per bloom. The petals of the chrysanthemum are typically elongated and spoon-shaped. They may curve inward to create a more pronounced sphere, or they may lay slightly flatter for a more daisy-like look. The center of the flower is usually small when compared to the abundant petals and can be of a matching or contrasting color, depending on the variety. The foliage of mums is deep green and can be coarsely textured, with leaves that are often lobed or divided in a feather-like pattern. These leaves are commonly dense and can act as a bushy backdrop for the profusion of flowers that appear in the blooming season. Chrysanthemum 'Swalwell' has a growth habit that is generally rounded and bushy, supporting the weight of the flowers well. The stems are sturdy and can be heavily branched, allowing for the extensive display of blooms that cover the plant when it reaches its full flowering potential. This visually abundant characteristic makes the 'Swalwell' variety a popular choice for adding a dramatic pop of color to gardens and decorative arrangements.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mum, Chrysanthemum
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Swalwell'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Chrysanthemum 'Swalwell' is chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums contain compounds that can be toxic to humans if ingested in large quantities. These substances include pyrethrins and sesquiterpene lactones, which can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. If ingested, symptoms of poisoning may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and sometimes skin rashes. In severe cases, more serious symptoms could potentially occur, such as difficulty in breathing, although this is rare. It's important for humans to avoid ingesting any part of chrysanthemums.
To pets
The common name for Chrysanthemum 'Swalwell' is chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums are considered to be toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. These plants contain pyrethrins, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis in pets if ingested. In severe cases, the ingestion can lead to depression, and muscle tremors. It is crucial to prevent pets from ingesting any part of chrysanthemums to avoid these symptoms of poisoning.
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- Attracts Pollinators: Chrysanthemums are known to attract bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollination in gardens.
- Aesthetic Appeal: 'Swalwell', with its ornate blooms, can enhance the beauty of gardens and landscapes.
- Seasonal Interest: They bloom in late summer to fall, providing color when many other plants are declining.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, chrysanthemums can be quite drought-tolerant, requiring less water compared to some other garden plants.
- Easy to Grow: They are generally easy to care for and maintain, making them a good choice for gardeners at all levels.
- Companion Planting: Chrysanthemums can be planted alongside other fall-blooming plants for a varied display.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Chrysanthemum tea has been traditionally used to reduce inflammation.
- Antioxidant: The plant contains compounds that may offer antioxidant benefits.
- Cooling effect: It is believed to have a cooling effect on the body and can be used to lower body heat.
- Soothing sore eyes: Chrysanthemum has been used to soothe sore or tired eyes.
- Immune system support: Some traditional practices use Chrysanthemum to support the immune system.
- Heart health: There is some evidence that Chrysanthemum may have a beneficial effect on cardiovascular health.
- Antimicrobial properties: The plant may have activity against certain bacteria and viruses.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine: Used in TCM for various ailments including high blood pressure and chest pain.
- Stress relief: Consuming Chrysanthemum tea is said to help relieve stress and calm the nerves.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural insect repellent: Chrysanthemum contains compounds like pyrethrin, which can be extracted and used as a natural insect repellent for both household and garden pests.
- Companion planting: Gardeners often plant chrysanthemums amongst vegetables to deter pests through the plant's natural insecticidal properties, promoting a healthier garden without the use of chemicals.
- Dye production: The petals of the chrysanthemum can be used to produce a natural yellow or golden dye for textiles, crafts, or food coloring.
- Indicator plants: Chrysanthemums can be used as indicator plants to monitor the presence of air pollutants, as they may show signs of stress when exposed to certain industrial contaminants.
- Photography subjects: With their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, chrysanthemums are popular subjects in floral photography and botanical art.
- Garden aesthetics: Chrysanthemums are often used in ornamental fall displays due to their late blooming nature, providing color when most other flowers have finished blooming.
- Meditative focus: The intricate and diverse patterns of chrysanthemum blooms are sometimes used as objects of focus during meditation or mindfulness practices.
- Culinary presentations: Edible varieties of chrysanthemums can be used as a garnish to add a splash of color and unique flavor to various dishes.
- Biological studies: Chrysanthemums are a subject of study for botanists and horticulturists investigating plant genetics, bloom patterns, and pest resistance.
- Religious and cultural symbolism: In various cultures, chrysanthemums hold symbolic meanings and are used during festivals, funerals, and other ceremonies to convey diverse sentiments.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is known to bring joy and positivity, according to Feng Shui principles. As a symbol of autumn, it represents well-being and ease. To use this plant effectively, place it in areas of the home that require uplifting energy, such as the living room or as a welcome element near the front entrance. This should enhance the Chi and create harmonious environments.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and immortality: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and the enduring nature of the human spirit, reflecting the plant's ability to bloom into the late autumn months.
- Rebirth and renewal: Due to their late blooming cycle, chrysanthemums can symbolize a fresh start or the rejuvenation of life.
- Loyalty and devoted love: Giving chrysanthemums can indicate a steadfast loyalty and deep devotion between friends or lovers.
- Happiness and joy: In general, the bright and cheerful appearance of chrysanthemums is seen as a symbol of joy and happiness in one's life.
- Grief and sorrow (in some cultures): In certain European countries, chrysanthemums are associated with death and are often used in funeral arrangements or to honor those who have passed away.
WaterMums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Swalwell', prefer evenly moist soil, so it's important to water them thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this may mean watering once or twice a week, depending on climate conditions and indoor temperatures. When watering mums, use a watering can to gently soak the soil around the plant without wetting the foliage, as this can promote disease. Aim to provide approximately one gallon of water per week, adjusting for rainfall and temperature, ensuring consistent moisture but not waterlogged conditions.
LightMums thrive best in bright, indirect sunlight. Ideal locations for Chrysanthemum 'Swalwell' are spots that receive morning sun and afternoon shade or a place with filtered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing mums in deep shade or full, harsh afternoon sun, as this can either stunt growth or cause wilting.
TemperatureChrysanthemum 'Swalwell' mums do well in a range of temperatures, thriving between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive short periods of colder temperatures down to about 32 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frosts. Keeping the mums in their ideal temperature range will promote healthy growth and longevity of blooms.
PruningPruning Chrysanthemum 'Swalwell' mums encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch back the tips of new growth in the spring and early summer to foster a fuller plant. As the blooming season concludes, usually in late fall, deadhead spent flowers to maintain appearance and prevent self-seeding. Prune heavily in early spring, removing last season's stems to make way for new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums like well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH around 6.5 to 6.7. A mix of loamy garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand to aid drainage is ideal.
RepottingMums should generally be repotted every one to two years or when they've outgrown their current container, maintaining healthy growth.
Humidity & MistingMums thrive in moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%, similar to typical indoor conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, regular watering, and moderate humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, protect from strong winds, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Swalwell,' commonly known as a mum, begins its life cycle as a seed or cutting, which when planted in well-drained soil and provided with sufficient warmth, will germinate or root. The seedling or rooted cutting then develops into a vegetative state, characterized by leafy growth and the establishment of a strong root system. As the plant matures, it enters the budding stage, where flower buds start to form, indicating the upcoming reproductive phase. Following this, the flowering stage occurs, typically in late summer or fall, showcasing the plant's vibrant blooms that attract pollinators for sexual reproduction. After pollination and fertilization, the plant produces seeds, allowing for the dispersal of new genetic material for future growth. Eventually, the mum completes its cycle by entering a period of dormancy during colder months, conserving energy to regrow in the subsequent season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Chrysanthemum 'Swalwell', commonly known as mum, is best propagated through division, which is a popular and straightforward method for this species. Division is typically done in the spring after the last frost has passed when the plant has begun to show new growth. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the parent plant and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring each section has a portion of the root system and several shoots. These divisions can then be replanted into well-draining soil at the same depth they were growing previously, spaced approximately 18 to 24 inches apart to allow ample room for growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish them in their new location.
