Chrysanthemum indicum Seeds | Wild Chrysanthemum
LATIN NAME: Chrysanthemum indicum
COMMON NAME: Wild Chrysanthemum
Plant Profile
Among the ornamental and useful plants raised from seed, Wild Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum indicum) stands out as a perennial in the daisy family. Wild chrysanthemum daisies low, branching perennial with deeply cut, aromatic leaves and loose clusters of small, golden-yellow flowers that daisy plant through late summer and autumn, ray petals spreading around yellow centres, small, grey seeds following. It spreads steadily into dense, rounded clump, and it stands cold and poor soil well. It likes sun, and light, well-drained ground. It is the sort of plant that quietly justifies the space it occupies.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the daisy family, Chrysanthemum indicum is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. Late, golden flowers of wild chrysanthemum give it a recognised place in research on chrysanthemum relatives of daisy family, and indicum species appears in studies of late-flowering meadow plants and flower pigments. Because it has been grown for so long, its garden habits are thoroughly documented.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Wild Chrysanthemum has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. In autumn garden, wild chrysanthemum daisies autumn border with golden, aromatic blooms. Golden flowers open through cool season, nectar feeds late bees, and plant makes fine border and wildflower-meadow plant. It grows well in light, well-drained, sunny ground. Establishment is uncomplicated, and afterwards ordinary care suffices.
Chrysanthemum flower, Ju Hua, is one of China’s great beverage herbs, brewed for cooling, eye-brightening teas, while the crown daisy leaves are a beloved vegetable and pyrethrum relatives gave us a major natural insecticide.
Growing from Seed
Raising Wild Chrysanthemum from seed is straightforward. Broadcast the seed thinly over a fine, free-draining compost, sieve a little more compost on top, and water with a fine rose. Prick the seedlings out once they are large enough to handle, grow them on in bright light, and plant out when conditions allow.
Our Take
Given the right start, Wild Chrysanthemum is a long-term garden companion. It is generous with beginners and their occasional misjudgements.
Related Reading
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