Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemums are one of the few perennial plants which flower in Fall. They were cultivated as herbs 3500 years ago in China, and exported to Japan 2300 years ago, and now are considered native to both landscapes. In both cultures, the flower inspires important holiday seasons. In addition, the flower is a symbol for an important group of Japanese heraldics, including the Imperial Seal of Japan; even today the flower gives its name to the highest honor conferred by the Emperor. Chryanthemums were brought to Europe four centuries ago with fanfare, and were identified and named as a m... more »

Chrysanthemums are one of the few perennial plants which flower in Fall. They were cultivated as herbs 3500 years ago in China, and exported to Japan 2300 years ago, and now are considered native to both landscapes. In both cultures, the flower inspires important holiday seasons. In addition, the flower is a symbol for an important group of Japanese heraldics, including the Imperial Seal of Japan; even today the flower gives its name to the highest honor conferred by the Emperor. Chryanthemums were brought to Europe four centuries ago with fanfare, and were identified and named as a member of the aster family by no less a giant of botany than Carl Linneaus. This is one of the most important commercial crops in the floral industry and its culture is surrogate for any annual or perennial which is fall-blooming or -harvested.

Chrysanthemums are associated with autumn events -- homecoming and some of the memorial holidays -- and anchor the autumn landscape. Belonging to the aster/daisy family, chrysanthemums are among the most displayed and exhibited flowers in the world, with national societies in most developed countries. Mums are distinguished from other species in that each blossom, or bud, is composed of many individual flowers, and each floret is capabile of producing a seed. A single blossom can contain both male and female flowers. Because of the variety and understanding of the genius, cultivars are exhibited by being bonsai'd (root trained) to different forms, like floral poodles, so chysanthemum shows are entertaining and well attended. (less)