Chrysanthemum morifolium Seeds | Florists’ Chrysanthemum
LATIN NAME: Chrysanthemum morifolium
COMMON NAME: Florists’ Chrysanthemum
Plant Profile
A distinctive member of its genus, Florists’ Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) is a sturdy, upright perennial in the daisy family. Put simply, this is a rewarding species for anyone willing to give it a suitable spot.
Science & Biotechnology
Like other members of the daisy family, Chrysanthemum morifolium draws steady attention from botanists and plant breeders, who value the genus both as a subject of research and as a source of garden-worthy material. Long ceremonial and garden history of chrysanthemum gives it a recognised place in research on autumn-flowering perennials of daisy family, and morifolium species appears in studies of cool-season bloom and flower pigments. Modern propagation practice has made this species straightforward to raise by ordinary good methods.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Florists’ Chrysanthemum has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. In autumn border, the florists’ chrysanthemum tops its autumn garden with golden heads. Flowers fill vases through cool season, petals have served teas and preparations for generations, and plant makes bold, generous clump. It grows well in rich, moist, well-drained, sunny ground. In later seasons it demands little more than an appreciative eye.
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
Starting Florists’ Chrysanthemum from seed is simple and satisfying. Surface-sow onto a light, well-drained compost, dust over a thin covering, and keep evenly moist and sunny until the seedlings show. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
The medicinal tradition behind this species, outlined above, is a large part of its interest. Florists’ Chrysanthemum settles in quickly once it finds its footing. It tolerates the sort of small mistakes every beginner makes.
Related Reading
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