Garden Mum Chrysanthemum 'Vibrant' (9c)

Names

• Synonyms

  Mum, Chrysanthemum, Hardy Garden Mum, Garden Mum.

• Common names

  Dendranthema 'Vibrant', Ajania 'Vibrant'

Toxicity

• To humans

  The Chrysanthemum, commonly known as mum, generally exhibits mild toxicity to humans. If ingested, it may cause symptoms such as dermatitis or skin irritation, and in some cases, if consumed, it might lead to irritation of the mouth or throat, diarrhea, vomiting, or other gastrointestinal upset. It is important to keep in mind that the level of toxicity can vary based on the amount ingested and the sensitivity of the individual. Handling the plant may also cause allergic reactions in some people, so it is always best to use caution and potentially wear gloves when working with mums to avoid any skin irritation.

• To pets

  The Chrysanthemum, more commonly known as mum, is toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. If ingested, it can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can cause more serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing or changes in heart rate. It is important for pet owners to prevent their pets from ingesting any part of the plant, and if they suspect their pet has consumed any, it is essential to contact a veterinarian immediately. The severity of the toxicity can depend on the amount ingested and the size and health of the pet.

Characteristics

• Life 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

  5-9

• Native area

  Asia

General Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: Chrysanthemum 'Vibrant' adds a splash of color to gardens and landscapes with its bright and vibrant flowers.
• Pollinator Attraction: These flowers are known to attract bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination and the health of the ecosystem.
• Seasonal Interest: As a flowering plant, it provides visual interest during its blooming season, often in late summer or fall, which can help to extend the garden's appeal beyond the spring and summer months.
• Ease of Care: Generally, chrysanthemums are low-maintenance plants that don’t require complex care, making them suitable for various gardening levels.
• Versatility: Can be used for various landscaping designs, including borders, container gardening, and cut flower arrangements.
• Garden Filler: Because of their bushy growth habit, they can fill empty spaces in the garden, creating a lush and full look.
• Adaptable: They can adapt to a variety of soil types as long as they are well-draining.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, they can tolerate periods of drought, which can be beneficial in areas with water restrictions or less frequent rainfall.

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

• Artistic dye: The petals of the chrysanthemum can be used to produce a natural, golden dye for fabrics and artworks.
• Garden pest control: Chrysanthemums can be planted as companion plants to deter pests like aphids and beetles from other plants in the garden due to their natural insecticidal properties.
• Culinary garnish: Fresh or dried chrysanthemum petals can add a colorful touch when used as a garnish for salads and desserts.
• Photography subject: Their bright, vibrant colors make them a popular choice for photographers looking to add a pop of color to their botanical or still life photographs.
• Floral water: Chrysanthemum petals can be steeped in water to create a fragrant floral water used in room sprays or linen fresheners.
• Fragrance ingredient: The scent of chrysanthemum is sometimes used in perfumery, albeit less commonly than other flowers.
• Crafts and decoration: Dried chrysanthemum blooms can be used in potpourri, wreaths, and other dried floral arrangements.
• Bookmark crafting: Pressed chrysanthemum flowers can be used to create unique and decorative bookmarks.
• Wedding confetti: Dried petals of chrysanthemums can serve as biodegradable confetti for weddings and other celebrations.
• Ink making: Historically, some artists have used chrysanthemum petals as a component in making plant-based inks for painting or calligraphy.

Feng Shui

The Chrysanthemum is often used in Feng Shui for its properties associated with bringing happiness and joy, thus it can be placed in living areas to uplift the energy and in spaces where positive relationships are desired. As a symbol of longevity and optimism, it can also be placed in health sectors or near the entrance to welcome good luck.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Loyalty and Devotion: Chrysanthemums are often given to represent loyalty and the strong bonds between friends or family members because they continue to bloom long into the fall, demonstrating perseverance and reliability.
• Longevity and Vitality: These flowers are also symbols of a long life and robust health in many cultures, especially in Asia, where drinking tea made from chrysanthemums is believed to promote a healthy life.
• Rebirth and Renewal: Associated with the fall, chrysanthemums can signify rebirth and the transition from one stage of life to another, reflecting nature's cycle of renewal and the return of spring after winter.
• True Friendship: In the language of flowers, chrysanthemums are said to represent honest and true friendship, making them a common gift between friends to show appreciation and respect.
• Death and Grieving: In some European cultures, chrysanthemums are symbolic of death and are often used during funerary ceremonies or placed on graves to honor the deceased and express grief and sorrow.