Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'Wessex Shell' (29d)
ABOUT
Chrysanthemum 'Wessex Shell' is a captivating plant known for its decorative flowers. This variety boasts a mesmerizing array of petals that unfold in a shape reminiscent of a pompom or a spoon, depending on the blooms' maturity. The petals are delicate, often displaying a soft color gradation that transitions from a creamy, almost pearl-like base to a gentle pink as they reach their tips. The overall impression is of a pastel hue suffused with warmth and subtle vibrancy, imparting an air of elegance. The foliage of the plant is typically deep green, offering a lush backdrop to the flowers and creating a striking contrast that highlights the blossoms' beauty. The leaves themselves are a fine texture, which further accentuates the sophisticated appearance of the 'Wessex Shell' Chrysanthemum. As the plant flourishes, it forms a bushy mien that adds to its charm, making it a standout addition to any area where color and form are desired.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mum, Chrysanths
Common names
Chrysanthemum 'Wessex Shell'.
ToxicityTo humans
Chrysanthemums, including 'Wessex Shell', are not highly toxic to humans, but they can cause minor skin irritation in some individuals due to the presence of sesquiterpene lactones. These compounds may lead to contact dermatitis—an allergic reaction characterized by red, itchy, and sometimes blistered skin in sensitive individuals. If ingested, the plant may potentially cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea, although serious cases of poisoning are rare. Caution is advised to avoid ingestion, particularly with children and pets, as they are more likely to suffer from possible negative effects.
To pets
Chrysanthemums are toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. If a pet ingests any part of a chrysanthemum plant, they can experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious symptoms, including signs of systemic illness like lethargy and weakness. It's important for pet owners to keep chrysanthemum plants out of reach of their pets and seek veterinary care immediately if they suspect their animal has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-3 feet (30-91 cm)
Spread
1-3 feet (30-91 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Chrysanthemums are widely appreciated for their beautiful flowers and the 'Wessex Shell' variety, with its delicate shell pink blooms, is especially attractive in garden settings.
- Variety of Uses: They can be used in beds, borders, and containers, offering versatility for garden design.
- Extended Blooming Season: Chrysanthemums, including the 'Wessex Shell', have a lengthy blooming period from late summer through fall, providing color when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Attracts Pollinators: These plants are attractive to bees and butterflies, which are important for pollination in the garden.
- Easy to Grow: They are generally easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Cut Flower Use: Chrysanthemums are excellent for cut flowers, and 'Wessex Shell' would provide lovely, pastel-colored cuttings.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Art and Craft Material: The petals of the chrysanthemum can be used in crafting, such as making natural dyes for fabrics or adding texture and color to papermaking.
- Edible Garnish: Some varieties of chrysanthemum are edible and the petals can be used as a decorative, flavorful garnish for salads and desserts.
- Natural Insecticide: Gardeners sometimes use chrysanthemum plants in the garden as they can help to deter certain pests naturally.
- Photography: Chrysanthemums are often used in photography for their vibrant colors and intricate forms which make attractive subjects for both professional and amateur photographers.
- Festive Decorations: During certain festivals like the “Festival of Happiness” in Japan, chrysanthemums are used extensively as decorations due to their cultural significance.
- Companion Planting: Chrysanthemum is sometimes planted alongside vegetables as it can help improve growth and deter pests with its strong scent.
- Wedding Bouquets: Due to their beauty and variety in color, chrysanthemums are a popular choice for wedding bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Language of Flowers: In floriography, or the language of flowers, chrysanthemums can carry different meanings, such as loyalty and honesty, making them a thoughtful gift.
- Tea Flavoring: The petals of certain species of chrysanthemum are used to flavor tea, adding a floral note to the beverage.
- Aromatherapy: The scent of chrysanthemum flowers is sometimes used in aromatherapy for its calming properties.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe chrysanthemum is believed to bring happiness and laughter into the home according to Feng Shui, so you could place this plant in living areas to promote a sense of joy and wellbeing.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: The chrysanthemum is often associated with long life and enduring vitality, a symbol deeply ingrained in Eastern cultures, particularly in China.
- Nobility and Elegance: In Japanese culture, the chrysanthemum, or ‘kiku’, is a noble flower, representing refinement and the aristocracy, as well as being the symbol of the emperor and imperial family.
- Loyalty and Devotion: In Victorian flower language, chrysanthemums convey messages of loyalty and devoted love, often given to show steadfastness.
- Death and Grief: In some European countries, such as France and Poland, chrysanthemums are traditionally used for funerals and to honor those who have passed away, signifying mourning and tribute.
- Rejuvenation and Recovery: Due to its association with health and longevity, the chrysanthemum is also used to symbolize the recovery from illness or adversity, wishing a return to a state of well-being.
- Joy and Beauty: Despite some somber meanings, chrysanthemums are often seen as cheerful flowers, representing happiness and the beauty of life in general.
WaterMums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Wessex Shell', prefer evenly moist soil, so it's important to water them regularly. During active growth, water deeply once a week, providing about one gallon per plant, ensuring you wet the soil thoroughly without waterlogging it. If the weather is particularly hot or windy, check the soil moisture levels more frequently, as mums may need additional water to prevent wilting. During the winter or when the plant is not actively growing, reduce watering but don't let the soil completely dry out. It's best to water early in the morning to allow foliage to dry out during the day, reducing the risk of disease.
LightMums thrive in full sunlight, so the Chrysanthemum 'Wessex Shell' should be placed in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. An east or south-facing spot that gets ample morning light is ideal for promoting vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Avoid placing it in deep shade, as this can lead to weak growth and fewer blooms.
TemperatureMums like the Chrysanthemum 'Wessex Shell' perform best in cooler conditions with ideal temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F. They can withstand temporary dips down to 32°F but sustained frost may damage the plant. When temperatures rise above 80°F, mums may experience stress, so it's essential to provide adequate water and mulch to keep the roots cool. Mums have a higher survival rate when they're not subjected to extreme heat or cold.
PruningPruning is essential for maintaining the shape and health of your Chrysanthemum 'Wessex Shell' mums. Pinch back the tips of new growth in late spring to early summer to encourage bushy growth and more blooms. As flowers fade, deadhead regularly to stimulate continued flowering and prevent seed development. The best time for significant pruning is just after the blooming cycle when you can cut back the stems to maintain a tidy shape.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.5 to 6.7. A good mix for mums would be equal parts of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite to ensure adequate drainage and fertility.
RepottingMums, like Chrysanthemums 'Wessex Shell', should typically be repotted every 1 to 2 years to refresh the soil and allow for growth. Repotting is best done in the spring.
Humidity & MistingChrysanthemums prefer moderate humidity levels; aim for around 40-60% for optimal growth, avoiding overly dry or excessively moist air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, away from drafts, water when top soil feels dry.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny spot, protect from harsh winds, and keep soil moist.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChrysanthemum 'Wessex Shell' begins its life as a seed or cutting, which, when planted in fertile, well-drained soil and provided with full sun to partial shade, will germinate or root. The plant then enters a vegetative state, where leaves and stems grow vigorously, especially in the spring and summer months. As it matures, bud formation occurs, usually in late summer to early fall, depending on the climate. These buds blossom into the plant's characteristic flowers, displaying hues of color that can attract pollinators. Following the blooming period, the chrysanthemum enters a senescence phase where the flowers fade and the plant prepares for dormancy. Finally, in response to shorter daylight hours and cooler temperatures, the plant goes dormant over winter, storing energy in its roots for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Chrysanthemum 'Wessex Shell', commonly known as mums, can be most effectively propagated through the division of established plants. This is typically done in the early spring before new growth begins or in the fall after the flowering period has ended. During division, clumps are carefully dug up and the roots are separated into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has a portion of the roots and several shoots. These divisions are then replanted at the same depth they were growing previously, spaced approximately 18 inches (about 45.72 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth and air circulation. Watering the new divisions thoroughly helps establish them in their new locations. Division not only helps to propagate new plants but also rejuvenates older clumps that may have become too dense, which can lead to reduced flowering.
