Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Tinseltown'

Names

• Family

  Asteraceae

• Synonyms

  Mum, Chrysanthemum

• Common names

  Chrysanthemum x morifolium, Dendranthema grandiflorum, Dendranthema x grandiflorum, Tanacetum grandiflorum

Toxicity

• To humans

  Chrysanthemums, including the 'Tinseltown' variety, contain compounds that can be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes. If ingested, they can potentially cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some cases, particularly if someone has a sensitivity to the plant, more severe reactions like dermatitis could also occur from handling the plant. However, for most people, the plant is unlikely to cause serious harm unless consumed in large quantities.

• To pets

  Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If ingested by your pet, the toxins can cause drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. In addition, chrysanthemums contain pyrethrins, which can lead to more severe symptoms such as incoordination, dermatitis, and, in extreme cases, neurological symptoms. It is very important to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the plant, and if they do, seek veterinary attention.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Yellow

• Height

  1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)

• Spread

  1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  5-9

• Native area

  Asia

General Benefits

• Ornamental Appeal: The Chrysanthemum 'Tinseltown' offers bright, decorative flowers that can add color and aesthetic appeal to gardens and floral arrangements.
• Seasonal Interest: Blooming in the fall, it offers seasonal interest when many other plants are starting to decline.
• Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees and other pollinators, which are beneficial for the health of the garden and local ecosystem.
• Cultural Significance: Chrysanthemums have significant cultural meanings in many societies, particularly in Asia, where they symbolize longevity and happiness.
• Easy to Grow: It is known for being relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it a good choice for novice gardeners.
• Versatility: Can be planted in garden beds, borders, and containers, providing flexibility in landscaping and garden design.
• Long Blooming Period: Chrysanthemums have a longer blooming period compared to many other flowering plants, offering color for an extended time.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, they have moderate drought tolerance, making them suitable for gardens in drier climates.
• Companion Planting: They can be used in companion planting to complement other plants in the garden by contrasting their colors and forms.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Floral Photography - Chrysanthemums like 'Tinseltown' often have intricate blooms that can make for stunning macro photography subjects, showcasing the detailed petal structures and vibrant colors.
• Fabric Dyeing - The petals of Chrysanthemums can be used in the natural dyeing process to impart colors to fabrics, though they may provide a lighter hue than some other flowers.
• Artistic Inspiration - Artists may draw inspiration from the form and color of Chrysanthemum blooms for paintings, illustrations, and design work.
• Composting - Once a Chrysanthemum has completed its life cycle, it can be added to a compost heap as a source of green matter, contributing to healthy compost for the garden.
• Educational Use - 'Tinseltown' Chrysanthemums can be utilised in schools or educational programs to teach about plant biology, horticulture, and the life cycle of flowers.
• Floral Arrangement Classes - Chrysanthemums are often used in floral design classes due to their variety in form and color, providing students with a diverse material to work with.
• Rituals and Ceremonies - In some cultures, Chrysanthemums are used for various ceremonies and rituals, symbolizing life and rebirth or serving as offerings to deities or ancestors.
• Garden Contests - Chrysanthemums can be cultivated for garden contests, where growers aim to produce the most aesthetically pleasing or unique blooms.
• Holiday Decorations - The Chrysanthemum's bloom timing aligns with several holidays and is therefore used in festive arrangements and decorations like autumnal displays or wreaths.
• Craft Projects - Dried Chrysanthemum flowers can be used in craft projects, such as making potpourri, flower-pressed bookmarks, or other decorative items.

Feng Shui

The Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui practice as a symbol of happiness and joy. It is believed to bring positive energy, or chi, into the home. To enhance the benefits, place chrysanthemums in the living room or other areas where guests are received to create a welcoming atmosphere and encourage good relationships.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Longevity and Immortality: In many cultures, chrysanthemums are a symbol of long life and the immortality of the soul due to their hardy nature and ability to flourish in various climates.
• Rejuvenation and Recovery: Because they bloom well into the fall, chrysanthemums signify the ability to bounce back and recover from adversity, representing resilience.
• Nobility and Elegance: In some Asian cultures, the chrysanthemum is associated with nobility and refinement, often reserved for the aristocracy and used in traditional arts.
• Loyalty and Devotion: Their lasting bloom and multitude of petals symbolize the enduring nature of loyalty and the abundance of love or support one might have for another person.
• Grief and Mourning: In some European countries, chrysanthemums are used as funeral flowers, symbolizing lamentation and grief, as well as honor for the deceased.
• Joy and Optimism: The bright and cheerful appearance of chrysanthemums also make them a symbol of happiness and a positive spirit, especially when gifted to celebrate joyous occasions.