Chrysanthemum, << kruh SAN thuh muhm, >> is a group of strong-scented shrubby herbs that grow in many temperate regions. Gardeners grow them for their beautiful and abundant blossoms, which usually appear in autumn. Chrysanthemum comes from two Greek words meaning golden flower. Many independent flowers make up each blossom. By careful disbudding (removing buds), flowers 8 inches (20 centimeters) across may be developed. Most blossoms are grown as clusters. Blossoms range from white or yellow to pink or red.
Chrysanthemums are easy to grow. They thrive in fertile, drained soil and full sunlight. Chrysanthemums grow from cuttings or root divisions. Most are peren-nial. In northern climates a covering of mulch (straw, leaves, or loose materials) may be needed in winter.
Cultivated chrysanthemums are “short-day plants.” They flower during the reduced daylight hours of autumn. Covering the plants in late afternoon will stimulate them to flower earlier in the season. Florists have learned to produce chrysanthemum flowers throughout the year by regulating the light in the greenhouse.
The chrysanthemum has been called the flower of the East. People in Asian countries have cultivated chrysanthemums for over 2,000 years. In China during the 400’s, Tao Yuanming became a famous breeder of these plants. After his death, his native city was named Juxian (City of Chrysanthemums). Chrysanthemums also flourished in Japan. In 797, the Mikado (ruler of Japan) made this flower his personal emblem. He decreed that it could be used only by royalty. In October, the Japanese celebrate the Feast of the Chrysanthemums.
