PlantFun
Plant Needs
Characteristics
- Leaves: Dark green, deeply lobed and aromatic when crushed, arranged alternately along the stems;
- Flowers: Dense capitulum (flower head) consisting of numerous ray and disk florets, blooming profusely in fall;
- Stems: Upright, branching, becoming somewhat woody at the base with age.
Care Guide
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, usually 2-3 times a week.
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer as new growth emerges.. Stop fertilizing once flower buds begin to open.
Banana Peel Tea：Steep chopped banana peels in water for 48 hours, strain, and use the liquid to water the base of the plant. Promotes robust autumn blooms. Discard peels in compost to avoid attracting pests.- Pinch back stem tips every 2-3 weeks from spring until mid-summer to encourage bushiness and more flower buds;
- Deadhead spent flowers to maintain a tidy appearance;
- Cut back dead stems to about 2 inches above the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets: Toxic per ASPCA. Contains pyrethrins and sesquiterpene lactones causing vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, and incoordination.
Humans: May cause contact dermatitis or mild stomach upset if ingested.
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: In Victorian flower language, the chrysanthemum symbolizes cheerfulness under adversity. In many European countries, such as France, Italy, and Poland, they are strongly associated with All Souls' Day and are traditionally placed on graves to honor the deceased.
Usage: Widely used as ornamental border plants, container specimens for autumn displays, and as long-lasting cut flowers.