The chrysanthemum—or mum for short—is the flower most associated with the fall season, providing the last pop of color in the garden. They make an excellent decoration for autumn displays and have a long history of symbolism that dates back centuries. Learn more aboutchrysanthemums!
TheChrysanthemum
Native to Asia, the word chrysanthemum comes from the Greek prefixes chrysos, meaning “gold,” and anthemon, meaning “flower.” Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus is said to have named the plant.
The original color of the chrysanthemum was golden, but through cultivation, the flower now comes in a range of colors—yellow, orange, white, purple, pink, and red.
A member of the daisy family (Asteraceae), the chrysanthemum is one of the most widely cultivated flowers.
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Chrysanthemum Meanings andSymbolism
- Chrysanthemums symbolize loyalty, friendship, and joy, but each color conveys a specific meaning. For example, red represents true love,white signifies innocence and honesty,and yellow symbolizes a wounded heart or neglectedlove.
- In parts of Europe, the chrysanthemum is seen as an expression of sorrow and a symbol of death andmourning.
- The Chinese and Japanese view the chrysanthemum as a sign of youth. It was believed to allow people to live longer and keep their bodies healthier. According to folklore, one chrysanthemum petal at the bottom of a glass of wine would promotelongevity.
- According to Chinese tradition, the flower prevents grayhair.
- Learn more about the meaning offlowers!
The Chrysanthemum inHistory
The chrysanthemum dates back to the 15th century B.C. China, where it was grown as a flowering herb, used in salads and teas. In Chinese art, the chrysanthemum is one of the four plants that make up the Four Gentlemen, representing the four seasons, along with the plum blossom, the orchid, and the bamboo. It was long used in China as a remedy for headaches, reducing blood pressure, and as an anti-inflammatory. It has also been offered to the elderly as a symbol of long life and goodluck.
By the 17th century, chrysanthemums were introduced to Europe and then the UnitedStates.
It is the national flower of Japan, and each year, the Festival of Happiness is held on September 9 to celebrate the chrysanthemum. It has long represented royalty and nobleness in Japan and is used on the emperor’s official seal andcrest.
The chrysanthemum is the flower given for a 13th anniversary and a traditional flower given on Mother’s Day in Australia. It is the official flower of Chicago, Illinois,too.
The National Chrysanthemum Society was incorporated as a nonprofit in 1954. Since then, the society has created a classification system—13 groups in all—for the diverseblooms.
Chrysanthemums in theGarden
Mums can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or by division. An easy perennial to grow, they should be planted in early spring after the possibility of frost has passed. They can be planted at any time but need at least six weeks for their roots to establish before hot temperatures or freezing weather. The plants will grow in the spring and summer but will not flower untilfall.
Mums should not be planted in the same area for more than three years in a row to prevent diseases andpests.
When frost has killed the foliage, cut it back to the ground and cover it withmulch.
Read more about chrysanthemums in our Chrysanthemum Growing Guide!
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