Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 'White Allouise' (25b)

Names

• Synonyms

  White Allouise Chrysanthemum, White Allouise Mum, White Allouise Daisy, Allouise White Chrysanthemum

• Common names

  Dendranthema morifolium 'White Allouise', Chrysanthemum morifolium 'White Allouise'

Toxicity

• To humans

  Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, contain several compounds that can be irritating to the skin and gastrointestinal tract if ingested. While they are not highly toxic to humans, consuming parts of the plant can result in symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Additionally, some individuals may experience dermatitis from skin contact with the plant due to the presence of pyrethrins and other potential irritants.

• To pets

  Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, can be toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if ingested. The toxicity is due to compounds such as pyrethrins, sesquiterpene lactones, and other irritants. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to depression and other central nervous system effects. Immediate veterinary attention is recommended if a pet has consumed any part of a chrysanthemum plant.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• 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

• Enhances Garden Aesthetics: Chrysanthemums are highly appreciated for their beautiful blooms that come in a variety of colors, including the elegant white of 'White Allouise', which can brighten up any garden space.
• Extended Blooming Season: They typically flower from late summer to fall, providing color and interest in the garden when many other plants are starting to decline.
• Attracts Pollinators: Chrysanthemums attract bees and butterflies, which are vital for pollination, supporting the health of the garden ecosystem.
• Low Maintenance: Known for being relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal care beyond watering and occasional feeding, making them suitable for gardeners of all levels of experience.
• Versatile Planting Options: They can be planted in beds, borders, and containers, offering flexibility in garden design and use of space.
• Provides Cut Flowers: The blooms of Chrysanthemum 'White Allouise' make excellent cut flowers for arrangements and can bring the beauty of the garden indoors.
• Cultural Significance: Chrysanthemums have cultural importance in many countries and are often used in festivals and celebrations, adding a layer of cultural value to their cultivation.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, some chrysanthemums are relatively drought-tolerant, making them suitable for gardens in drier climates after they've been well established.
• Companion Planting: Chrysanthemums can be used in companion planting to enhance the growth of other plants and deter pests due to their natural compounds.
• Seasonal Festivity: With their traditional association with fall, chrysanthemums can be used to create seasonal displays for autumn celebrations and holidays.

Medical Properties

• Anti-inflammatory: Chrysanthemums contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
• Antioxidant: They have antioxidant properties that can help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Calming: Chrysanthemum tea is traditionally consumed to help soothe the nerves and promote relaxation.
• Antipyretic: Used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Chrysanthemum tea is believed to help in reducing fever.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Chrysanthemums can be used in companion planting to deter pests from other plants, providing a natural form of pest control.
• The petals of Chrysanthemums can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, yielding colors from yellow to tan depending on the mordant used.
• Chrysanthemum leaves are sometimes used in salads in some cultures, contributing a slightly tangy flavor.
• Dried Chrysanthemum flowers are often used in potpourri to add a pleasant fragrance to rooms.
• Some artists use Chrysanthemum blooms in pressed flower art, due to their varied and vibrant colors.
• Chrysanthemum flowers can be used as natural indicators in pH experiments due to their color changing properties in different pH solutions.
• In certain regions, Chrysanthemum flowers are floated in bowls of water to create decorative centerpieces for tables.
• As a symbol of longevity and rejuvenation in some cultures, Chrysanthemums are used in festive decorations during specific celebrations like the Japanese Festival of Happiness.
• Chrysanthemum petals can be added to bathwater for a fragrant and relaxing bathing experience.
• The strong stems of Chrysanthemums are sometimes used in flower arranging techniques to support other, more delicate flowers in a bouquet or arrangement.

Feng Shui

Chrysanthemums are believed to carry strong Yang energy and represent longevity and joy in Feng Shui. To harness these qualities, the white chrysanthemum can be placed in living areas of the home, such as the living room, to create a calming atmosphere and promote a sense of well-being.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Loyalty - Chrysanthemums are often associated with loyalty due to their reliable and lasting bloom. The steadfast nature of the flower’s bloom through to late autumn can symbolize steadfastness in relationships.
• Honesty - The clear, pristine white of the 'White Allouise' variety suggests purity and truth, making it a symbol of honesty.
• Longevity - In many cultures, particularly in Asia, chrysanthemums are symbolic of long life and well-being, as the flower is known for its health-giving properties and its long-lasting nature when cut.
• Grief - In some European countries, white chrysanthemums are a symbol of lamentation or grief, and they are often included in funerary arrangements or when honoring lost loved ones.
• Rejuvenation - As the flower that blooms in the face of the approaching winter, it symbolizes rebirth and the power to overcome difficulties.
• Nobility - In Japan, the chrysanthemum is a noble flower, representing perfection, optimism, and joy, partly because of its orderly unfolding of petals.