Garden Mum Chrysanthemum 'Yellow Fairie' (28b)
ABOUT
The Chrysanthemum 'Yellow Fairie' is a striking, ornamental flower known for its vibrant and cheerful appearance. The blooms are a vivid yellow color that can brighten up any garden setting. The flowers exhibit a classic chrysanthemum shape, consisting of a multitude of layered petals that radiate outward from the center, giving the flowers a full and lush look. Each petal has a smooth and slightly curved edge, which contributes to the flower's overall pom-pom like appearance. The center of the flower is typically darker in color, creating a pleasant contrast with the bright yellow petals. The foliage of the plant is a rich, deep green, which provides a perfect backdrop for the brilliant yellow flowers. The leaves are generally oblong with serrated edges and they have a slightly glossy texture. The overall growth habit of the Chrysanthemum 'Yellow Fairie' is bushy, with the greenery and flowers creating a dense cluster of color and texture. This plant is a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers alike, as it provides a stunning pop of color throughout its blooming season, and the flowers are excellent for cutting and arranging in vases.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Yellow Fairie Chrysanthemum, Yellow Fairie Mum, Yellow Fairie Dendranthema.
Common names
Dendranthema 'Yellow Fairie', Ajania pacifica 'Yellow Fairie'.
ToxicityTo humans
Mums, which is the most common name for Chrysanthemum 'Yellow Fairie', are not generally considered highly toxic to humans. However, they contain compounds like pyrethrins that can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals upon contact. Ingesting large amounts of the plant might cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, but serious cases of poisoning are rare.
To pets
Mums are toxic to pets, particularly dogs, cats, and horses. If ingested by these animals, mums can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, and dermatitis. In severe cases, ingestion might lead to depression, anorexia, and a lack of coordination. Pet owners should prevent their pets from consuming any part of the plant to avoid these adverse effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Chrysanthemum 'Yellow Fairie' adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes with its bright yellow blooms.
- Long Blooming Season: This variety tends to have a longer blooming period, offering flowers from late summer until the onset of winter frost.
- Pollinator Attraction: The blossoms of the Chrysanthemum 'Yellow Fairie' attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity.
- Easy to Grow: It is generally easy to care for, resilient, and adaptable to various soil types, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Companion Planting: Chrysanthemums are known to work well in companion planting, helping to deter pests from neighboring plants.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms make excellent cut flowers for arrangements due to their long vase life and attractive form.
- Garden Diversity: By integrating Chrysanthemums like 'Yellow Fairie' into a garden, one can increase plant variety and create a more dynamic visual display.
- Seasonal Festivity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with fall, making them perfect for seasonal displays during autumn festivities.
Medical Properties- No documented medical uses could be found for Chrysanthemum 'Yellow Fairie' specifically.
- This plant is primarily grown for ornamental purposes and not used for medical treatments.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Dye: The petals of Chrysanthemum can be used to create a natural yellow dye for fabrics and artworks.
- Natural Pest Control: The plant can repel certain insects and can be used in companion planting to protect other plants without chemicals.
- Photography Subject: Chrysanthemums, with their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, are excellent subjects for botanical photography.
- Floral Arrangements: Beyond their fresh state, dried Chrysanthemums can add texture and interest to dried floral arrangements.
- Craft Projects: Dried petals can be incorporated into paper making or pressed flower crafts for decoration and texture.
- Culinary Garnish: While typically not eaten, the bright flowers can be used as an edible garnish to add color to salads and desserts.
- Traditional Festivals: In some cultures, Chrysanthemums are used during festival times as a symbol of joy and longevity.
- Tea Flavoring: Although not for this specific variety, Chrysanthemum flowers in general can be used to flavor tea.
- Feng Shui: Some believe that placing Chrysanthemums in certain areas of the home can bring positive energy according to Feng Shui principles.
- Garden Design: Chrysanthemums can be used in garden designs to provide autumn color when many other plants have finished blooming.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chrysanthemum is used in Feng Shui practice as it is believed to bring happiness and laughter to the home. According to Feng Shui principles, yellow chrysanthemums are particularly beneficial when placed in the center of a home or in the living room to enhance Earth energy, which fosters stability and nurturing. They can also be used to create a sense of balance and harmony in a space.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chrysanthemum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chrysanthemums are often associated with long life and immortality, reflecting the hardiness and perseverance of the flower.
- Optimism and joy: The vibrant yellow hue of the 'Yellow Fairie' Chrysanthemum symbolizes positivity, happiness, and the ability to brighten anyone's day.
- Friendship: Giving yellow chrysanthemums is a way of celebrating friendships and showing affection towards friends.
- Recovery: These flowers are often given as a wish for quick recovery, embodying the energy needed to overcome challenges.
- Royalty: In some cultures, chrysanthemums are seen as noble and regal, often associated with royalty and dignity.
WaterMums, such as the 'Yellow Fairie' Chrysanthemum, prefer evenly moist soil, so it's important to water them thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This might translate to watering once every week, but this can vary depending on climate and weather conditions. Use lukewarm water, and apply it directly to the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease. In terms of quantity, ensure that you provide enough water to moisten the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches each time. It is not recommended to work with fixed amounts of water, like ounces or gallons, as watering needs can change with environmental conditions.
LightThe 'Yellow Fairie' Chrysanthemum thrives in full sunlight, which means it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. A southern or western exposure is ideal for the best bloom. However, in extremely hot climates, they may benefit from afternoon shade to prevent wilting.
TemperatureChrysanthemums, including the 'Yellow Fairie' variety, perform best in temperatures between 60°F and 70°F. They can tolerate a range from about 32°F to 90°F, but extreme temperatures can impede growth and flowering. Mums appreciate cooler temperatures, especially at night, to develop their vibrant colors.
PruningPruning 'Yellow Fairie' Chrysanthemums encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch back the tips of the stems in late spring and early summer to promote branching. Stop pinching around mid-July to allow flower buds to form. After blooming, cut back the stems to 2 inches above the ground to maintain tidiness and health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMums thrive in well-draining soil with high organic content. A mix of equal parts peat, perlite, and potting soil works well. The ideal pH for Chrysanthemums is slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingMums should be repotted every one to two years or when they outgrow their current pot, to ensure healthy growth and adequate root space.
Humidity & MistingMums prefer moderate humidity levels. Aim for a range of 40-60% humidity for optimal growth without promoting mildew or rot.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation for mums indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to part-shade, protect from harsh elements, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Chrysanthemum 'Yellow Fairie', commonly known as the Hardy Mum, begins its life as a seed which germinates in spring under suitable temperature and moisture conditions. The seedling emerges and develops into a vegetative plant with characteristic deeply lobed leaves and stout stems, maturing over the summer months. As day length decreases in late summer to early fall, the Hardy Mum enters a reproductive phase, producing numerous yellow flower buds. These buds bloom into vibrant yellow flowers, often coinciding with autumn temperatures. After flowering, the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed to create new plants, though many cultivators also propagate the Hardy Mum through cuttings to maintain specific cultivar traits. In winter, the above-ground parts of the plant die back, while the root system survives underground, ready to restart the growth cycle in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
For the Chrysanthemum 'Yellow Fairie', also commonly known as mums, the most popular method of propagation is through division. This is usually done in the spring when the plants are emerging from dormancy and have fresh growth, allowing them to recover quickly. Gardeners should carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the roots into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. These divisions should be replanted at the same depth they were originally growing, and spaced approximately 18 to 24 inches apart (45 to 60 centimeters) to allow for adequate airflow and growth. After replanting, it is important to water thoroughly to help the roots establish in their new location.
