Chrysanthemum
Dendranthema x grandiflorum
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Pl. D051 — Dendranthema x grandiflorum
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IOverview
Overview
Chrysanthemum, scientifically known as Dendranthema x grandiflorum, is a perennial plant native to the southeastern and north-central regions of China. This full-sun lover thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils, making it adaptable to various environments within its hardiness range of 5-10. Standing up to 1.5 meters tall, Chrysanthemum is valued not only for its ornamental beauty but also for its edible parts—both the flowers and leaves can be enjoyed. Its distinctive features include vibrant blooms and a versatile nature that allows it to be both a decorative addition to gardens and a source of culinary delight.
Quick answers
What is Chrysanthemum?
Chrysanthemum, scientifically known as Dendranthema x grandiflorum, is a perennial plant native to the southeastern and north-central regions of China.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Chrysanthemum thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 5-10 and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. For propagation, gardeners can use division or cuttings. The edible parts include the flowers and leaves.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Chrysanthemum for the first time
8steps
Start with easy-to-grow chrysanthemums for a rewarding beginner gardening experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, garden soil, containers if planting indoors.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or start seeds indoors about 8 weeks before the last frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light, medium, and heavy textures. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors in small pots or directly sow outdoors once the weather is warm. Transplant young plants after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot, ideally full sun for best growth.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent moisture and light. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced plant food. Prune back after flowering to encourage new blooms.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune regularly to maintain shape and promote bushy growth. Cut flowers for bouquets when they are fully open.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without drainage, neglecting regular pruning, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeaves
Edible uses: Tea
Other uses:Pollution
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 22 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 22 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 8 native· 22 introduced
Asia7 regions
native (4)ChinaJapanMongoliaSouth Korea
introduced (3)ChinaJapanPhilippines
Americas3 regions
introduced (3)GuatemalaHondurasPeru
Broader regions
native:Primorye
introduced:Hainan, Jawa, Lesser Sunda Is., Malaya, Marianas, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest, Panamá, Sumatera, Borneo
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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