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September 11, 2026Short & citedBlog
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Field Notes • Flora

Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemum is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family (Asteraceae), commonly called mums or chrysanths.

Updated September 11, 20261 min readCited sources

Chrysanthemum is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family, commonly known as mums or chrysanths. They are widely grown as ornamental flowers, especially associated with autumn in Canada.

What it is

Chrysanthemums are perennial herbaceous plants in the Asteraceae family, native primarily to East Asia and northeastern Europe. The genus contains about 40 species with many horticultural cultivars, prized for their range of colours and flower forms, from daisy-like to densely petaled pompons.

Why it matters

Their cultural symbolism varies widely: in some traditions they represent happiness, health, and longevity, while in others they are linked to mourning. In Canada, chrysanthemums are a popular fall ornamental in gardens and floral arrangements, especially from September to November.

Key details

Most chrysanthemums bloom in late summer through autumn. They are generally grown in well-drained soil with full sun and regular watering. Hardiness and lifespan depend on cultivar and climate; some are treated as annuals in colder regions. Note that toxicity to pets is disputed, so caution is advised.

In short

  • Genus of about 40 species with many cultivars
  • Strongly associated with autumn and November in the Northern Hemisphere
  • Symbolism varies by culture, from happiness to grief
  • Popular in Canadian fall gardens and urban horticulture
Canadian angle

Chrysanthemums are popular ornamental flowers in Canadian gardens and floral arrangements, especially in the fall. They are also well known in Canadian urban horticulture and autumn landscaping.

Quick questions

What is a chrysanthemum?
A chrysanthemum is a flowering plant in the genus Chrysanthemum, in the daisy family (Asteraceae), commonly grown as an ornamental flower.
Are chrysanthemums perennials?
Yes, chrysanthemums are generally perennial herbaceous plants, though some are grown as annuals or seasonal potted plants depending on climate and cultivar.
What do chrysanthemums symbolize?
Their symbolism varies by culture, but they commonly represent happiness, health, optimism, joy, and longevity; in some regions they are also associated with mourning or death.

Sources

  1. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/Chrysanthemum
    Supports: Genus classification, family Asteraceae, approximate number of species, and native range.
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysanthemum
    Supports: Perennial herbaceous habit, autumn bloom season, native range, and common names.
  3. Plants & Flowers Foundation Holland — https://www.plantsandflowersfoundationholland.org/en/flowerguide/chrysanthemum/
    Supports: Symbolism, bloom season, and toxicity statement.
  4. NC State University Plant Toolbox — https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/chrysanthemum/
    Supports: Genus description and pet/toxicity information.
  5. 1800Flowers — https://www.1800flowers.com/articles/flower-facts/all-about-chrysanthemums
    Supports: Cultural symbolism and autumn association.
  6. Oklahoma State University Extension — https://extension.okstate.edu/programs/plant-id/plant-profiles/chrysanthemum/
    Supports: Hardy perennial forms and horticultural use.