Last Updated on May 5, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
There are many different types of chrysanthemum flowers, and each one has its own unique look and personality. Some blooms resemble daisies, while others have more pompon-like shapes.
In this blog post, we will explore the different types of chrysanthemum flowers and their distinguishing characteristics. Whether you’re looking for a showy flower to brighten up your garden or a versatile bloom to use in arrangements, you’re sure to find the perfect chrysanthemum!
Related: 350+ Different Types Of Flowers With Names, Meaning and Pictures (Flower Categories)
Facts about Chrysanthemum flowers
Did you know that chrysanthemums are a symbol of death in some cultures? In Japan, they’re often used in funerals. Chrysanthemums also have a long history in China, where they were first cultivated over 2500 years ago. Today, they’re the national flower of both countries.
Chrysanthemums are part of the Asteraceae family, which also includes daisies and sunflowers. There are over 40 species of chrysanthemum, and hundreds of cultivars. The most common type of chrysanthemum grown in the US is the garden mum.
Chrysanthemums come in a wide range of colors, including white, yellow, pink, red, and purple. The flowers can be single or double, and they range in size from small button mums to large dinner plate varieties.
Mums are generally easy to care for, but they do have a few specific needs. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Mums also need to be watered regularly, especially during hot weather. Overwatering can cause the flowers to wilt and the leaves to turn yellow.
Types of Chrysanthemum flowers
There are many types of chrysanthemum flowers, and each type has its own unique beauty. Some of the most popular types of chrysanthemums include:
1. Single Mums.
Available in yellow, white, pink, and red, this mum has one row of petals around a central disc. A very popular type of chrysanthemum, it is also known as the football mum.
This flower gets its name from its single row of petals which are said to resemble a mother’s love and care. Single mums are available in yellow, white, pink, and red. They make great cut flowers and are also known as the football mum.
2. Single mum ‘Bolero’ (Chrysanthemum ‘Bolero’).
Single mum ‘Bolero’ (Chrysanthemum ‘Bolero’) is a stunning deep red chrysanthemum with a long flowering period. It is perfect for adding colour to your garden from autumn through to winter.
This hardy plant is easy to care for and will thrive in most soil types. It prefers full sun or partial shade and should be watered regularly.
3. Single Mum ‘Clara Curtis’ (Chrysanthemum ‘Clara Curtis’).
Bloom color: Pink with white edge.
Flowering: October – November.
Clara Curtis chrysanthemums are named after the famous British horticulturist Clara Curtis (1878-1963). Curtis was a well-known plantswoman and garden writer. She was also the author of several books, including The Flower Garden (1909), The Wild Garden (1911), and The English Flower Garden (1913).
This chrysanthemum is a single-flowered form, meaning that the flower has only one row of petals.
Chrysanthemum ‘Clara Curtis’ is a slow-growing, compact plant that reaches just 30cm in height. It has glossy, dark green leaves and large, double flowers with ruffled petals. The flowers are pink with a white edge and appear in October and November.
This pretty little plant is perfect for adding color to your fall garden. It looks great planted in beds, borders, or containers. It also makes a lovely cut flower. If you’re looking for a gift for a single mum this Mother’s Day, why not give her a potted Clara Curtis chrysanthemum?
4. Quill Mums (Quill chrysanthemum).
Bloom color: deep pink
Bloom time: late summer to early fall
Height: 24-36 inches
Width: 18-24 inches
Spacing: 12-18 inches apart
Exposure: full sun to partial shade
Soil type: well drained
These pretty perennials are known for their long, quill-like petals. They make excellent cut flowers and look beautiful in bouquets. Quill mums are easy to grow and care for, and they make a great addition to any garden.
5. ‘Anastasia White’ Quill Mum.
The ‘Anastasia White’ quill mum is a beautiful, unique flower that is native to Australia. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is related to the daisy. The quill mum has long, thin leaves and white flowers with yellow centers.
The plant gets its name from the quills on the leaves, which are used to make the Australian Aboriginal instrument, the didgeridoo.
6. ‘Patricia Grace’ Quill Mum.
‘Patricia Grace’ Quill mum is a beautiful plant that produces stunning white quills. It’s native to Mexico and was introduced to the United States in the early 1800s.
The quills are actually modified leaves that protect the plant from grazing animals. Quill mums are very easy to grow and make great additions to any garden.
7. Spider Mums (Spider chrysanthemums).
Spider Mums come in many different colors, but my favorite is the white one. They are very fragrant and make great cut flowers.
8. ‘Symphony’ Spider Mum (Symphony Chrysanthemum).
Symphony chrysanthemums are a hybrid of the garden mum and the wild chrysanthemum. They were first introduced into cultivation in China over two thousand years ago.
The plants grow to a height of three feet and have a spread of two feet. The blooms are four to six inches in diameter and can be white, yellow, pink, red, or purple.
The ‘Symphony’ spider mum is a very popular plant for use in floral arrangements. The blooms can last up to three weeks when cut and placed in a vase with fresh water.
9. ‘Chesapeake’ Spider Mum (Chrysanthemum Chesapeake).
Chesapeake spider mums are a beautiful, unique variety of spider mum.
They are characterized by their large, showy blooms in shades of orange and yellow.
Chesapeake spider mums make great cut flowers, and they are also excellent for dried arrangements.
10. Anemone Mums (Anemone Chrysanthemums).
You can find these beautiful flowers in shades of white, pink, red, and purple. They are the perfect addition to any fall arrangement!
Anemone Mums have a long vase life and are very easy to care for. Simply cut the stems and place them in a vase with fresh water. Change the water every few days and enjoy your fresh flowers!
11. ‘Daybreak’ Anemone Mum (Chrysanthemum ‘Daybreak’).
Daybreak is an anemone type mum with large, showy flowers. The blooms are a deep rose color with yellow centers. The plant has a mounded habit and is covered in blooms from late summer into fall. ‘Daybreak’ makes a great addition to any garden or landscape.
This anemone mum is very easy to grow and is heat and drought tolerant. It does best in full sun but will tolerate some light shade. ‘Daybreak’ is a low maintenance plant that will provide color and interest all season long.
12. ‘Anderton’ Anemone Mum (Chrysanthemum ‘Anderton’).
Anderton’s are one of the most popular anemone mums. They have a beautiful deep red color and large blooms. Anderton’s are easy to grow and make great cut flowers.
‘Anderton’ Anemone Mum is a great choice for gardeners who want to add some color to their landscape. Anderton’s are also great for container gardening.
13. Pompon Mums (Pompon Chrysanthemum).
Pompon mums are a type of chrysanthemum that gets its name from its small, round blooms. These flowers are popular in bouquets and as potted plants, and they come in a wide range of colors.
While pompon mums are often associated with fall, they can actually be planted in the spring or summer.
14. Pompon Mum ‘Yoko Ono’ (Chrysanthemum ‘Yoko Ono’).
Yoko Ono pompon mums are one of the most unusual and interesting varieties of this popular flower.
The blooms are small, but densely packed with petals, giving them a “pom pom” like appearance.
These mums are also very prolific bloomers, often producing hundreds of flowers on a single plant.
Pompon mum ‘Yoko Ono’ is a relatively new variety, first introduced in the early 2000s.
It was named after the famous Japanese artist and musician, Yoko Ono, in honor of her creative spirit.
Pompon mum ‘Yoko Ono’ is a great choice for gardeners who are looking for something a little different.
15. ‘Moonbeam’ Pompon Mum (Chrysanthemum x morifolium ‘Moonbeam’).
This hybrid mum was developed by the W. Atlee Burpee Company and introduced in 1963. It is a cross between the garden chrysanthemum and the Japanese Hardy Chrysanthemum. The plant has an upright, bushy growth habit and reaches a height of 18-24 inches (45-60 cm).
The flowers are double, daisy-like, and light yellow in color. ‘Moonbeam’ is one of the earliest blooming pompon mums and will flower from late summer to early fall.
16. Decorative mums.
Decorative mums are a type of chrysanthemum that is often used for decoration. They come in many different colors and sizes, and they can be either annual or perennial.
Annual mums will only bloom for one season, while perennial mums will bloom multiple times over the course of several years.
17. ‘Indian Summer’ Decorative Mum (Chrysanthemum x morifolium ‘Indian Summer’).
This deciduous perennial is part of the Asteraceae family and is native to Asia. It can grow up to four feet tall and produces beautiful, daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow, red, pink, and white. The ‘Indian Summer’ variety is a hybrid that was developed in the United States and is one of the most popular types of mums.
This plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is relatively low maintenance and is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. ‘Indian Summer’ mums can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. These plants make great additions to borders, gardens, and even indoor arrangements.
18. ‘Coral Charm’ Decorative Mum (Chrysanthemum ‘Coral Charm’).
It is a hybrid between the florist’s mum and the chrysanthemum morifolium. The plant grows to about two feet tall and blooms in mid to late summer.
The flowers are coral pink with yellow centers, and they have a strong fragrance. ‘Coral Charm’ is an excellent choice for borders, beds, and containers. It is also a good cut flower.
19. Reflex Chrysanthemums.
Reflex chrysanthemums, also called hula or hoopskirt chrysanthemums, are one of the most popular types of chrysanthemums. They get their name from their reflexed petals, which give them a skirt-like appearance. Reflex chrysanthemums are available in a wide range of colors, including white, yellow, pink, red, and purple.
Reflex chrysanthemums are typically used as cut flowers and make beautiful additions to bouquets and arrangements. They’re also popular choices for use in corsages and boutonnieres.
20. Brush or Thistle Chrysanthemums.
There are many chrysanthemum species and cultivars in a wide range of colors. The most popular colors are white, yellow, and pink. Red is also popular, but it is not as commonly seen as the other colors.
Chrysanthemums are native to Asia and northeastern Europe. They have been cultivated in China for over 2500 years and were brought to Japan in the early Ninth Century.
21. Spoon mums (chrysanthemum x morifolium).
The name spoon mums refers to the shape of the flower petals, which are spoon-like. These flowers are native to Asia and were introduced to Europe in the 18th century.
Spoon mums come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, pink, red, and purple. They typically bloom in late summer or early fall.
22. ‘Starlet’ Spoon Mum.
Starlet spoon mum is a beautiful plant with long, green leaves and small white flowers. It is native to Australia and can be found in the wild in Queensland and New South Wales. The plant gets its name from the shape of its leaves, which resemble stars.
Starlet spoon mum is a popular choice for gardens because it is easy to care for and drought tolerant. The plant does best in full sun and well-drained soil. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings.
23. ‘Happy Face’ Spoon Mum (Chrysanthemum Happy Face).
The name says it all with this one – the large, spoon-shaped blooms of the ‘Happy Face’ Chrysanthemum are a cheerful deep yellow, with a big central black disc that gives them their happy face appearance. These vigorous, easy-to-grow plants make excellent bedding plants and are also great for cutting.
24. Cushion mums (Cushion Chrysanthemums).
They are small chrysanthemums with a lot of petals that make them look like pincushions. The plants are usually low-growing and have hairy leaves.
Cushion mums are native to Asia and were introduced to Europe in the 18th century. They were first grown in England and then brought to the United States in the early 19th century.
Today, cushion mums are grown all over the world. In the United States, they are most commonly found in gardens in the Northeast and Midwest. However, they can be grown in any part of the country.
25. ‘Ruby Mound’ Cushion Mum (Chrysanthemum Ruby Mound).
This variety of mum is a deep red color and has a mound-like shape. It is a great addition to any fall garden or floral arrangement.
‘Ruby Mound’ Cushion Mum (Chrysanthemum Ruby Mound) are easy to care for and require little maintenance. They are drought tolerant and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
26. ‘Chiffon’ Cushion Mum (Mum Chiffon).
A beautiful perennial that is a part of the daisy family. It blooms in early to midsummer, and its flowers are a lovely sight against the deep green foliage. The ‘Chiffon’ Cushion Mum is an excellent addition to any garden, and it will surely bring a smile to your face when it blooms.
27. Incurve Blooms (Incurve Chrysanthemum).
The incurve chrysanthemum is a beautiful flower that blooms in the fall. The incurve chrysanthemum is native to Japan and China, and it was first introduced to Europe in the 18th century.
The incurve chrysanthemum is a member of the Asteraceae family, which includes daisies, sunflowers, and asters. The incurve chrysanthemum is also known as the Japanese quillflower, and it is a popular flower in the florist industry. The incurve chrysanthemum has a long blooming season, and it is available in a wide range of colors.
28. Unclassified Chrysanthemums.
Chrysanthemums come in a wide variety of colors, shapes and sizes. There are even some that are unclassified, which means they don’t fit into any known category. These unusual chrysanthemums can be found in many different colors, from white to pink to purple.
Some have petals that are curled or ruffled, while others have petals that are straight and smooth. No matter what their shape or color, unclassified chrysanthemums are sure to add a touch of uniqueness to your garden.
29. Chrysanthemum ‘Emperor of China’.
Chrysanthemum ‘Emperor of China’ is a beautiful, ornamental plant that can add color and life to any garden. This hardy plant is easy to grow and care for, and it will bloom reliably every year with very little effort on your part. If you’re looking for a show-stopping plant to add to your garden, ‘Emperor of China’ is a great choice!
30. Chrysanthemum ‘Clara Curtis’.
This chrysanthemum was developed in the United States and is named after one of its developers, Clara Curtis. It was introduced commercially in 1957 by the Mummerset Nursery in New Jersey.
The plant typically grows to a height of about 30 inches and produces large flowers that can be up to eight inches in diameter. The flowers are typically a deep pink color with yellow centers.
Chrysanthemum ‘Clara Curtis’ is a popular plant for use in gardens and as cut flowers. It is hardy in USDA zones five through nine and does best in full sun to partial shade.
How to plant Chrysanthemum.
To plant chrysanthemum, first dig a hole in the ground that is twice the size of the plant’s root ball. Next, mix some compost into the hole. Finally, place the plant in the hole and fill it with soil. Water regularly and fertilize monthly for best results. Enjoy your beautiful chrysanthemums!
Where is the best place to plant chrysanthemums?
Chrysanthemums are a beautiful addition to any garden, and they can be planted in a variety of locations. Here are a few tips to help you choose the best spot for your chrysanthemums.
When selecting a location for your chrysanthemums, make sure to choose an area that gets plenty of sunlight. Chrysanthemums need at least six hours of sunlight each day to thrive. Another important factor to consider is drainage. Chrysanthemums will not do well in areas that are prone to flooding or standing water. Be sure to select a location with well-drained soil.
How to care for chrysanthemums
Sun and shade needs.
Chrysanthemums like five to six hours of sunlight each day. They also like at least one inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation.
Watering needs.
When it comes to watering your chrysanthemums, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, chrysanthemums prefer evenly moist soil. This means that you should water them regularly, making sure to never let the soil dry out completely.
Second, chrysanthemums are sensitive to overwatering. Be sure to check the soil before watering, and only water if the top few inches are dry. Lastly, make sure you water at the base of the plant rather than from above to avoid wetting the leaves.
Temperature needs.
Chrysanthemums prefer a cool environment and will not thrive in hot, humid conditions. They should be kept at temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
If the temperature gets too high, the leaves will droop and the flowers will wilt. Too low of a temperature will cause the buds to fall off the plant.
Soil Needs.
Chrysanthemums prefer a soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.
The next step is to amend the soil with organic matter. This can be done by adding compost, manure, or peat moss to the planting area. The organic matter will help to hold moisture in the soil and provide nutrients for the plants. After amending the soil, it is time to plant the chrysanthemums.
Fertilizing needs.
Chrysanthemums are heavy feeders and benefit from a regular fertilization schedule. A well-balanced fertilizer applied every two to three weeks will keep them looking their best.
Be sure to follow the directions on the fertilizer package, as too much fertilizer can burn the plants. Also, avoid getting fertilizer on the leaves, as this can cause leaf scorch. Water the plants thoroughly after applying fertilizer to help prevent root burn.
Mulching is also important for chrysanthemums, as it helps keep the roots cool and moist. A layer of mulch two to three inches deep will do the trick. Be sure to pull back the mulch from around the base of the plant when you fertilize, and then replace it afterwards. This will help prevent root rot.
Pruning Chrysanthemums.
Chrysanthemums are one of the most popular flowers in the world, and they come in many different colors. The most important thing to remember when pruning chrysanthemums is to never cut back more than one-third of the plant.
This will help the plant to stay strong and healthy. If you need to remove more than one-third of the plant, it is best to do it over the course of a few weeks.
Another important thing to remember when pruning chrysanthemums is to cut at an angle. This will help the plant to grow back fuller and healthier.
When you are finished pruning, be sure to fertilize the plant and water it well. With a little care, your chrysanthemums will thrive and provide you with beautiful blooms for years to come.
Propagating Chrysanthemums.
To propagate your own chrysanthemums, you’ll need to take stem cuttings from healthy, non-flowering shoots in late spring or early summer. Cuttings should be around six inches long, and you’ll want to make sure there are at least two leaf nodes on each cutting.
Once you have your cuttings, you’ll need to dip them in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Be sure to keep the soil moist but not soggy, and within a few weeks, you should see new growth. At that point, you can transplant your chrysanthemums into individual pots or the garden.
Repotting Chrysanthemums.
Chrysanthemums should be repotted every two to three years. The best time to repot your chrysanthemum is in the spring, just as new growth begins.
To repot your chrysanthemum, gently remove it from its current pot and loosen any compacted roots. Place the plant in a new pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one and fill with fresh potting mix. Water well and place in a bright, sunny spot.
Pests and Diseases.
Chrysanthemums are generally healthy plants and don’t succumb to many pests or diseases. However, there are a few problems that can occur. Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can all attack chrysanthemums. These pests suck the sap out of the plant, which can weaken it and even kill it.
Aphids are among the most common pests that attack chrysanthemums. These small, soft-bodied insects can cause damage by sucking sap from leaves and stems. Aphids also secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can encourage the growth of sooty mold on the plant. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.***
Spider mites are tiny pests that feast on plant sap. They are most active in hot, dry conditions and can quickly destroy a plant if left unchecked. Chrysanthemums are particularly susceptible to spider mite damage, so it’s important to be on the lookout for these pests.
To control spider mites, start by spraying your plants with water every few days. This will help to keep the mites from getting a foothold. You can also use an insecticide, but be sure to follow the directions carefully. If spider mites are left unchecked, they can quickly destroy a plant.
Whiteflies are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can be a major problem for gardeners. The adults are whiteflies that flutter around in the air when disturbed. They lay their eggs on the undersides of leaves, and the larvae crawl around and feed on the sap.
Whiteflies can quickly infest a plant and cause it to weaken and die. To control whiteflies, remove infested leaves and dispose of them. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the adults and larvae. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.
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FAQs
Are chrysanthemums the flower of death?
The chrysanthemum is a beautiful flower that has been associated with death in many cultures. In Japan, the chrysanthemum is the symbol of the emperor and is often used in funeral wreaths. In China, the white chrysanthemum is associated with mourning and is often used in funerals.
Related: The Fascinating Symbolism and Meaning Behind Chrysanthemum Flowers
What is chrysanthemum flower good for?
Chrysanthemum flowers are not only beautiful, but they are also good for your health. Chrysanthemum tea is a popular herbal tea in China that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. Some of the benefits of drinking chrysanthemum tea include reducing inflammation, boosting immunity, and aiding in digestion.
How do you use chrysanthemum flowers?
Chrysanthemum flowers have a long history of being used in traditional Chinese medicine. The flowers are believed to have a variety of medicinal properties, including the ability to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation.
Chrysanthemum tea is one of the most popular ways to consume the flowers, and it is said to have a number of health benefits. Chrysanthemum tea can be made by steeping the flowers in hot water, and it is often drunk for its purported health benefits.
What type of mums are perennials?
Perennial mums are typically hardy plants that can survive the winter in most climates. This makes them a great option for gardeners who want to add color and interest to their landscape without having to replant every year.
There are many different types of perennial mums, so it’s important to choose the right variety for your climate and garden.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a perennial mum:
-Hardiness: Perennial mums are available in a wide range of hardiness levels. Choose a plant that is rated for your climate zone to ensure it will survive the winter.
-Sunlight: Most mums need full sun to thrive, but there are a few varieties that can tolerate partial shade.
-Soil: Mums prefer well-drained soil. If your garden has heavy clay or poor drainage, consider planting your mums in raised beds or containers.
-Size: Perennial mums come in a variety of sizes, from small dwarf varieties to large plants that can reach up to six feet tall. Choose a size that will fit in your garden space.
Conclusion
The moral of the story is, don’t judge a flower by its color. There are all sorts of chrysanthemums out there, each with their own unique beauty. So next time you see a chrysanthemum, stop and appreciate all its intricate details. You might just be surprised by what you find.