Chrysanthemum segetum
Chrysanthemum segetum
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Pl. 433B — Chrysanthemum segetum
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IOverview
Overview
Chrysanthemum segetum, commonly known as bristlechen or corn marigold, is an annual herb that thrives in various European and Mediterranean habitats, including Albania, Algeria, Austria, and parts of Russia. Native to regions like Belarus, Belgium, and the Azores, this plant is known for its edible leaves and shoots, making it a valuable addition to culinary gardens. Its preference for moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH between 5 and 5.5, along with its height of up to 0.5 meters, makes C. segetum adaptable in diverse growing conditions. This plant is recognized by its distinctive light yellow flowers that bloom throughout the summer months, adding ornamental value to fields and gardens.
Quick answers
What is Chrysanthemum segetum?
Chrysanthemum segetum, commonly known as bristlechen or corn marigold, is an annual herb that thrives in various European and Mediterranean habitats, including Albania, Algeria, Austria, and parts of Russia.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Chrysanthemum segetum thrives in light to moderately moist soils that are well-draining but can tolerate heavier clay soils. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 5 to 5.5 and is best suited for light (sandy), medium, or heavy soil types. This annual plant requires full sun to partial shade and grows up to 0.5 meters tall. For cultivation, harvest the leaves and shoots for edible use. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged, as it needs regular watering, especially during dry periods. Given its native range across Europe and parts of Asia, Chrysanthemum segetum is generally hardy in temperate regions.
Light
7/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.5 m tall
Soil pH
5–5.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Chrysanthemum segetum for the first time
8steps
Start with simple soil preparation and basic care for Skip, a light-loving annual.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a small trowel, a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when soil is warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with full sun. Amend soil with compost for light, medium, or heavy soils.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep, spaced 30-45 cm apart. Transplant seedlings when they have two sets of true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Continue regular watering, especially during dry spells. Pinch back shoots to encourage bushiness.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune regularly to maintain shape and prevent legginess. Remove spent flowers to promote more blooms.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, neglecting regular pinching back.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: The leaves and shoots of Chrysanthemum segetum are edible. Typically, they are harvested fresh and used raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. Skip the detailed preparation methods since specific cooking techniques were not provided.
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe14 regions
native (14)AustriaBelarusBelgiumCyprusDenmarkFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryItalyNetherlandsPortugalRussiaSpain
Asia2 regions
native (2)PalestineSaudi Arabia
Africa3 regions
native (3)AlgeriaLibyaMorocco
Broader regions
native:Kriti, Czechoslovakia, East Aegean Is., Lebanon-Syria, Baltic States
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 433b4817-134e-4e3b-88e6-62d992bfbe19
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