Chrysanthemums and Hardy Mums

Although formerly referred to as Dendranthema morifolium, plant taxonomy now classifies chrysanthemums as Chrysanthemum morifolium. This is a case where the genus name has become such a commonly used name that capitalization is often abandoned (as will be the case in this article). Other common names for these colorful fall characters are based on the shortened version (“mums”) of the genus name. This one will hear “hardy mums” (or “garden mums”), the focus of this article, versus the less hardy “florist mums.”

These plants are usually considered herbaceous perennials. However, if you wish to grow chrysanthemum flowers in your area as perennials, select an appropriate cultivar (which, in cold climates, will mean one of the hardy mums). Your local county extension can offer advice in this matter. A spring planting is best, giving them time to become established before winter.

Chrysanthemum is from the Greek, chrysos (gold) and anthos (flower). These plants come in a wide variety of floral colors, including not only gold but also white, off-white, yellow, bronze (rust), red, burgundy, pink, lavender and purple. Mum plants can grow to be 2-3 feet high, depending on the cultivar and growing conditions. Chrysanthemums also come in many flower forms; that is, they are often grouped by the shape and arrangement of the petals of their blooms. The most popular flower form is the “decorative,” which is so packed with long, broad petals that you can hardly see the center.